First Minister John Swinney has confirmed a package of up to £1 million will be provided to Clackmannanshire Council to support residents affected by ground movement in the Coalsnaughton area.
The money will ensure the local authority can cover expenses it has incurred as a result of its emergency response, including temporary housing, welfare and staffing costs.
First Minister John Swinney said: “I was grateful to hear from the residents of Coalsnaughton last week about the situation they have been placed in and understand the considerable stress this is causing.
“As residents will be out of their homes for at least eight weeks while the Mining Remediation Authority (MRA) carries out its investigations, this £1 million package will allow Clackmannanshire Council to provide support for them during this time.
“Ministers will continue to ensure the UK Government is pressing the MRA to expedite its investigations as quickly as possible to prevent further disruption to people’s lives.
“The Scottish Government is working closely with Clackmannanshire Council to support residents.”
More than 1.5 million to stay up all night watching matches and over 4 million inspired to volunteer, finds Royal Voluntary Service
The World Cup is in the Americas this summer, and despite being played across the pond, football fever has already taken hold of many Britons.
New research by Royal Voluntary Service found over 24 million British adults plan to tune into a World Cup game this summer, and almost one in 10 (8%) say they would like to get more involved with football beyond simply watching the tournament.
Like any good case of football fever, there are side effects – particularly for Gen Z and Millennials. Over 1 million 18-34s plan to sacrifice their sleep and stay up all night to watch World Cup games. However, dreams of the trophy also seem to be inspiring the younger generations, as over one in five (21%) would consider volunteering their time to support football in the community.
For the first time, fans now have the opportunity take their love of the game beyond the sofa by connecting with football volunteering roles through through GoVo.
With almost 6 million British adults saying they would consider volunteering in some capacity to support football, people are clearly looking for ways to support, not just spectate.
GoVo is a new digital volunteering platform, offering opportunities with grassroots football teams across the country for footie fans to get a kick out of.
Long after the league season ends and fantasy teams collapse into ruins, while the international stars take centre stage at the World Cup, volunteers will still be out marking pitches, coaching kids, organising training and quietly keeping local football alive.
From coaching positions and inclusive football sessions to groundskeeping and community club support, volunteering opportunities are available for supporters who want to stay involved in the beautiful game long after the final whistle.
Phil Wood, Chair of Operations at Epsom and Ewell Colts FC, a grassroots football club said:“People see the players on a weekend morning – but what is often not seen are the army of volunteers doing everything from seeding pitches, organising venues and arranging all the fixtures on a weekly basis.
“There are so many roles that keep a club running – without volunteers, grassroots football simply wouldn’t exist.”
Volunteering opportunities on GoVo for football fans to tackle include:
· Offering an assist and supporting players at inclusive football sessions
· Becoming a grassroots gaffer as a volunteer Head Coach with a local team
· Getting stuck in helping local clubs run training sessions
· Step in like a super sub and support ad-hoc community football events and tournaments
· Becoming a backroom hero prepping pitches and keeping clubs match ready
· Practicing punditry and creating social media content, matchday updates and digital coverage for teams and foundations.
Dave Stott, Director of Volunteering at Royal Voluntary Servive and Everton season ticket holder, said: “Most football fans have spent years shouting at managers from the sofa convinced they could do a better job – but grassroots football is where people can actually get involved and make a difference.
“Whether it’s helping at a local session, supporting a club behind the scenes or encouraging the next generation of players, volunteering is a way for fans to share their love of football in a completely different way.”
Made possible thanks to the support of players of Postcode Lottery, GoVo connects people with bite-sized volunteering opportunities that fit easily into everyday life. Many of the football volunteering roles are flexible, so England and Scotland fans can find time between World Cup matches to squeeze in helping out.
Meanwhile, Wales fans have a slightly easier schedule to manage.
Those inspired to get involved can browse football or sport-related volunteering opportunities in their area at GoVo.org.
The charity’s animal welfare team walk over two marathons daily caring for Edinburgh’s pets
Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home is highlighting the vital role it plays in supporting pets and their people across the city, as Keith, a hairy lurcher who arrived at the Home in need of urgent care, prepares to find his forever home.
The charity, which has been part of Edinburgh for more than 140 years, provides expert care for dogs and cats in need while offering advice, support and reassurance to pet owners across local communities.
Keith was brought to police by a member of the public before arriving at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home. He was emaciated, had open wounds across his body and needed medicated treatment for his paws after standing in foul conditions.
Despite everything he’s been through, Keith is now ready to find his forever home. His true personality has started to shine thanks to the expert care and patience of the team at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home.
Once he feels comfortable, Keith is cuddly and affectionate, often laying his head in a lap, and has shown his playful side as he continues to grow in confidence.
As Edinburgh’s Home for pets and the people who love them, the charity provides far more than a safe place to stay. From helping animals recover from neglect, injury or difficult circumstances, to supporting pet owners with advice and guidance, the Home plays a vital role in the lives of people and animals across the city.
Between January and April 2026 alone, the Home received 5,725 calls from members of the public, averaging more than 1,400 calls a month and over 300 every week.
The Home also averages 105 veterinary visits every month, helping dogs and cats access the care they need before they are reunited with their owners or matched with new families.
Amelia Morgan, CEO at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said: “Keith’s story is a powerful reminder of why Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home is here. He arrived needing care, patience and expert support, and our team has been there for him every step of the way.
“This is what it means to be Edinburgh’s Home. We are here for dogs and cats in need, but we are also here for the people who love and care for them, whether they need advice, reassurance or practical support.”
The work that happens behind the scenes is also significant. The charity’s Animal Welfare Team clocks up around 122,625 steps every day while caring for animals on site, roughly the equivalent of walking more than two marathons.
Amelia added: “Every walk, vet visit, clean bed and kind interaction helps animals feel safe, loved and ready for their next chapter.
“Keith has been through a great deal, but he is affectionate, playful and ready to find the right home. Like every animal in our care, he deserves the chance to move forward and enjoy the life ahead of him.”
Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home continues to support pets and their people across the city through expert care, rehoming, reunification and community services.
As dozens of brightly decorated taxis made their way through the Capital’s streets in the annual Edinburgh Taxi Outing yesterday, the Lord Provost and Council Leader reflect on another unforgettable day:
City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “I am absolutely delighted that the annual Edinburgh Taxi Outing has gone ahead as planned.
“Once again, our cabbies have raised the bar with their fantastic taxi decorations and my thanks to them, and all those who volunteer to make this such a special day for Edinburgh children.
“It was such a wonderful sight to see the parade of taxis making its way through our streets – they were clearly enjoying soaking all of the bystanders with water balloons and pistols! As ever, it was fun, hilarious, uplifting and wet! I am sure lasting memories have been made for everyone involved.
“This very special event has been a firm fixture in Edinburgh’s calendar since the 40s. It means so much to many people and seeing the smiles, excitement and community spirit on display reinforced just how special it is.
“Personally, I have fond memories of the event over many years and attending with my own daughter. We will do everything we can to ensure this cherished tradition continues for many years to come.”
City of Edinburgh Lord Provost Robert Aldridge added: “The annual Taxi Outing Parade is one of my personal highlights of the year – even if I do get soaked! It is a real pleasure to take part in the parade and present rosettes to the best decorated taxi and best fancy-dress costume.
“I’m sure all those children and drivers taking part had a fantastic day, but it’s also a brilliant sight for the many spectators who line the streets to cheer it on.
“The recent outpouring of support has shown just how much this wonderful event means to people, and I’m sure it will continue long into the future.”
Strachan House care home resident Betty Hardie had always wanted to learn how to pull a pint, so staff at the home made her wish come true. The amazing staff at the Scottish Engineer were more than happy to welcome Betty and teach her everything she needed to know to get the perfect pour!
Betty is at Strachan House on a respite stay and couldn’t believe that we had made her wish come true. Staff at the home were delighted to be a part of making Betty’s dream come true, as they knew how much it meant to her.
Staff first found out about Betty’s dream after having a chat with her on her admission, ever since then, they have been dedicated to helping Betty achieve it. Christine, a fellow resident and Betty’s friend was also there to offer moral support and enjoy a beautiful pub lunch.
In response to this wonderful surprise, Betty, said: “It was such a wonderful day, I can’t believe that the home were able to make this happen!”
Fran Fisher General Manager at the home, said: “We believe that every moment is worth cherishing.
“We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here even if their stay is short It is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team here in making our residents’ dreams come true and we couldn’t have done it without Lisa, Connor and the amazing team at the Scottish Engineer; we will be forever grateful”.
Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.
This Carers Week, local charity VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian) is calling for greater recognition of, and practical support for, unpaid carers, as new evidence shows caring is pushing too many people into poverty.
Unpaid carers are often managing higher household costs, cutting back on paid work, and spending more on fuel, transport, food and equipment. For many, the cost of living crisis comes on top of the cost of caring, creating intense pressure on family finances and wellbeing. VOCAL says demand for financial wellbeing support continues to rise locally.
VOCAL brought carers, staff and partner organisations together at its Cost of Unpaid Caring event to explore the causes of carer poverty and the changes needed locally and nationally.
Their report, launched on 8 June, highlights several key drivers of hardship, including the extra costs of disability and care, loss of income for working carers, difficulty accessing adequate social security, social care charges, legal costs such as Power of Attorney, and growing food insecurity.
Rosie McLoughlin, VOCAL CEO, said: “The value of unpaid care in Edinburgh alone is estimated at over 1 billion pounds but many carers provide this care at real personal and financial cost.
“This latest report shows that carer poverty is being driven by a combination of rising living costs, lost income, inadequate support and systems that are too hard to navigate. During Carers Week, we are calling for change so that taking on a caring role does not mean being pushed into poverty.”
VOCAL is calling for practical action at every level:
A national hardship fund to support carers with the unexpected costs of caring
Increased social security support for carers nationally
Power of Attorney costs to be covered for carers
An end to unfair social care charging
More in-depth research on the Minimum Income Standard to understand the costs of caring and rollout of the Minimum Income Guarantee
Encouraging all employers to improve their carer policies, advocate for better social care services, and offer paid carer’s leave
Carers Act Funding to be allocated to crisis-prevention
Edinburgh will become one of the first local authorities in the country to introduce widespread restrictions on mobile phone use in schools at the start of the new school year in August.
Councillors at Education, Children and Families Committee agreed a ‘bell to bell’ ban of mobile phones, with lockable pouches to be introduced in every secondary school in the city. Learners at secondary schools will have to place mobile phones in lockable pouches for the duration of the school day. Primary school aged pupils will have to lock mobile phones away in cabinets.
It was also agreed that secondary school senior leadership teams will have the opportunity to develop their own guidance regarding senior phase (S5-S6) pupils’ access to their mobile phones during break, lunchtime and independent study time.
Mobile phone restrictions are already in place at two Edinburgh secondary schools, Portobello and Queensferry High Schools, where trials of lockable pouches have been underway since last year. Anecdotal feedback from staff and young people at both schools is positive.
A six-week citywide consultation on mobile phone restrictions earlier this year received almost 14,000 responses from parents/carers, pupils and school staff. Results were overwhelming in support of a ban, with 97% of secondary school staff and 94% of parents/carers favouring a ban, and 53% of young people supporting restrictions during teaching time.
Alongside the consultation, separate and targeted engagement has taken place with groups of secondary school pupils, head teachers, unions, members of the Scottish Youth Parliament and Edinburgh Youth Action.
A £400,000 one-off budget for purchase of lockable pouches and storage cabinets was agreed at the Council’s annual budget setting meeting in February this year. A strategy for the current and future procurement of pouches will also be developed.
In bringing in mobile phone restrictions, special consideration will be given for pupils with health needs or caring responsibilities who may need access to their mobile phone during the school day. The council will develop guidance for schools, including how exemptions will work in practice.
Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convenor said: “This is a monumental step for Edinburgh’s children and young people and I am proud that we are one of the first local authorities in the country to introduce widespread restrictions on mobile phones in schools.
“I’ve been clear from the start that we wanted to be bold in our ambition to make our schools phone free environments that enable our teachers to teach and pupils to learn without the distraction of devices in the classroom.
“The uniform introduction of lockable pouches in all our secondary schools will level the playing field for all learners in Edinburgh, streamlining a phone free schools policy and guaranteeing that every single young person can get the most out of their time in the classroom.
“We know from the two pilots already underway that keeping phones out of the classroom is positive and alongside our consultation showing broad support from teachers, school staff and parents/carers, I am confident that these restrictions will be warmly welcomed and hugely impactful.”
A man has been jailed for three years and four months for violence against women and drug supply offences in Edinburgh.
Douglas Dunbar, 65, pled guilty to supplying controlled drugs to several women, assault and attempting to defeat the ends of justice at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 3 February, 2026.
On Sunday, 25 February, 2024, officers attended a shopping centre in Edinburgh following a report of concern for an unresponsive female within a vehicle. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene and her death was treated as drug related.
Enquiries revealed Dunbar had supplied the woman with class A drugs for several months prior to her death, and he had been engaging with other people involved in prostitution in the Edinburgh area in exchange for cash and controlled drugs.
He admitted disposing of her phone in an attempt to defeat the ends of justice.
Dunbar was also convicted of violently assaulting another woman by restraining her arm then compressing her neck within his van in January, 2024.
On Tuesday, 9 June, 2026, Dunbar was ordered to serve three years and four months in prison, at the same court.
Detective Sergeant Ashley Rea, Gayfield CID, said: “Dunbar prayed on vulnerable women, supplying them with drugs, which he knew could cause serious harm.
“When one woman suffered an overdose in his van, he disposed of her phone in an attempt to cover his tracks before then calling emergency services for help. His actions were reckless and deplorable, with no concern for the risk posed to these vulnerable women.
“I want to commend the women who came forward to report what had happened to them. I want to thank them and the family of the woman who died for providing key information which resulted in charges against Dunbar. It’s thanks to their combined strength and determination throughout the process that Dunbar is now behind bars. I hope the outcome in court will bring them some form of justice and comfort.
“I also want to acknowledge the work done by detectives and criminal justice partners to bring him to justice.
“Police Scotland is dedicated to tackling violence against women and commercial sexual exploitation. Women and girls should be able to live their lives free from all forms of violence, abuse, harassment and exploitation.
“We understand how difficult it can be to report violence or abuse. It is important people understand they are not alone, help is available. We have specially trained officers and partners who take a trauma-informed approach. Anyone who reports such crimes is fully supported throughout.”
Hundreds of Scots have already provided nearly 900,000 meals for kids in crisis-hit Haiti with Scottish charity Mary’s Meals
Former Scotland star Stephen O’Donnell has backed a Scottish charity appeal to feed hungry children in Haiti ahead of the nations’ World Cup clash.
Scotland will play their first World Cup match in 28 years when they take on Haiti in Boston this Sunday. Haiti have qualified for only their second World Cup and first since 1974, but their participation is even more remarkable given they were unable to host any qualification matches on home soil.
The situation in Haiti is dire. Armed conflict has intensified and gangs now control an estimated 90% of the capital city, while dominating areas previously deemed safe. Widespread violence is devastating the economy, agriculture, and supply chains, leaving the country to face the worst hunger crisis in its history, with more than half of the population currently experiencing acute food insecurity.
Hardest hit are Haiti’s children. Hungry and surrounded by violence, many are being recruited into armed gangs – lured by the promise of food.
Mary’s Meals, the school feeding charity founded in a shed in the Scottish Highlands, has been providing school meals in Haiti since 2006. Under normal circumstances, Mary’s Meals reaches more than 196,000 children every school day, providing them with food, energy to learn and the hope of a brighter future.
In response to the escalating chaos, Mary’s Meals recently launched a crisis appeal. Thanks to the generosity of hundreds of Scots, donations have already raised enough to provide nearly 900,000 meals for hungry Haitian children.
In the build-up to the World Cup opener, former Scotland international and current Motherwell footballer Stephen O’Donnell – a long-time supporter of Mary’s Meals – is backing the appeal.
Stephen says: “While all eyes will be on the pitch on Sunday, the match is also shining a spotlight on Haiti’s challenges off the pitch.
“The game holds so much excitement for me, my former teammates, the Tartan Army, and all of Scotland, but it gives everyone a chance to reflect on what’s happening in Haiti as well.
“As a father, I can only imagine how it feels to be struggling to feed your children, amid violence and the threat of your loved ones being recruited into gangs. I’m thankful there’s a charity in Scotland helping those in need, and I know the incredible work Mary’s Meals does in turning just one 10 pence coin into a nutritious meal for a child.”
Scottish donations are helping children in Haiti like Billy, who has overcome the loss of his father and his own difficult health issues to thrive in school and become top of his class. He says: “Receiving Mary’s Meals keeps me from being hungry. And it is much easier to follow the teacher and be active in class.”
Calling on people in Edinburgh to consider contributing to Mary’s Meals, Stephen adds: “It’s incredible – but not unexpected – that so many Scots have already responded to Mary’s Meals’ rallying call to reach families suffering in Haiti, and I’d urge anyone who has a spare 10p to follow in their footsteps.
“Although we’ll all be hoping for a Scotland victory this weekend, we can also support Haiti by donating to the appeal and providing a brighter future for Haiti’s next generation. Hopefully we’ll see some of the children fed by Mary’s Meals at a future World Cup too.”
Mary’s Meals UK Media Manager and Scotland fan Gary Armstrong says: “For the past 20 years, Scottish donations to Mary’s Meals have been helping feed children in Haiti. Today, our school feeding programme is more necessary than ever given the brutal violence and daily challenges families and their children are facing.
“We’d like to thank Stephen for his support, and the hundreds of people across the country who have responded to our appeal so far. Scots are known the world over for their friendliness and generosity, which I’m sure we’ll see in the US in the coming weeks. By helping friends in Haiti we haven’t yet met, this kindness has already been shown before a ball has been kicked.”
It costs Mary’s Meals just 10p to provide a child with a nutritious meal in school, or only £19.15 to feed a child for a whole school year. If you can, please donate today: www.marysmeals.org.uk
Best Start Grant School Age Payment is paid automatically to those who already receive Scottish Child Paymentbut some people still need to apply.
Applications are now open to those who:
don’t qualify for Scottish Child Payment but get Housing Benefit.
have opted out of automatic Best Start Grant payments
are under 19 and dependent on someone else who gets benefits for you
If you’re currently receiving Scottish Child Payment you will receive a text when we’re checking eligibility and we will send a letter to let you know if you will get the payment automatically.
