Author: davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer

Improving communities’ mental wellbeing

£30 million for grassroots projects for adults

Community-led mental health and wellbeing projects are to benefit from £30 million Scottish Government funding over the next two years.

The Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults – first launched in 2021 – supports local groups to deliver programmes for adults which build resilience and tackle social isolation, loneliness and mental health inequalities. It is expected the Fund will open to applications this Autumn.

In the first three years around 4,800 grants were made to a wide range of grassroots community projects focused on connecting people and providing peer support through activities such as sport, outdoor activities, and the arts.

The charity, Empower Women for Change, has secured grant awards in all rounds of the Fund to date. This year, the group is using its grant to support lone parents, families with a disabled family member, Minority Ethnic families, and young mothers.

Visiting their office in Glasgow Mental Wellbeing Minister Maree Todd said: “I am pleased to meet staff and service users at Empower Women for Change and hear more about the valuable work they do in the community they support. It is inspiring to see first-hand the impact that this funding can have.

“Since the fund was established, we have invested £66 million, reaching a variety of groups supporting those at increased risk of poor mental health and wellbeing – including people facing socio-economic disadvantage, older people and ethnic minority communities.

“I look forward to seeing the positive impact that this further £30 million investment will make to the wellbeing of people and communities across Scotland.”

Empower Women for Change CEO and Founder Asma Abdalla said: “We are delighted and honoured to welcome the Minister Maree Todd to our organisation. The Wellbeing Fund has played a transformative role in improving the lives of our service users of ethnic minority women and girls and our volunteers, members, and staff.

“Through our Inspired Women projects, we have provided vital mental health support, resilience, and community connection, changing lives and strengthening communities. We are looking forward to continuing this work, with support from the Wellbeing Fund.

“We welcome this unique opportunity to share Inspired Women participants’ testimonies, their voices highlight the urgent need for sustained investment in grassroots wellbeing services. Please join us in amplifying their stories and celebrating the power of community-led change.”

Partnership Manager at Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector Sheena Arthur said: “We are delighted that the Scottish Government’s Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund is continuing. This fund delivers small grants which make a positive difference and so far, has supported over 900 Third Sector organisations and community groups across Glasgow.

“In increasingly challenging times, the Third Sector plays a crucial role. This fund enables the development of existing projects as well as emerging ideas from the community. It helps to bring people together- contributing to better health and wellbeing of people and families, strengthening social connections and tackling inequality and poverty.”

Within the first three years, the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults has provided around 4,800 grants to community organisations delivering mental health and wellbeing support.

Alex Cole-Hamilton welcomes former Army HQ transformation

Scottish Lib Dem Leader applauds transformation of popular development

THE LEADER of the Scottish Liberal Democrats has praised the redevelopment of 78 homes at Scotland’s former Army Headquarters, commending ongoing revitalisation efforts.

In a recent visit to the project within his constituency, Mr Cole-Hamilton was invited to tour Craigiehall Meadows, formally Craigiehall Barracks, viewing homes at both the Hillside Road and Riverside areas of the development.

Led by Ralph Sayer and situated on the northwest edge of Edinburgh, the development has attracted strong buyer interest, with more than half of the first phase already sold.

Mr Cole-Hamilton, MSP for Edinburgh Western said; “One thing that’s absolutely vital is new housing, but it’s intelligent new housing that we need. 

“In West Edinburgh, we’ve had our fill of a proliferation of new housing developments and without much thought from developers about what that means for schools or roads or health infrastructure. 

“What I love about the Craigiehall Meadows development is that they are lovingly restoring 1960s housing to the highest specification possible, so that they’ll have a new lease of life where families will enjoy them for decades to come.

“So, it’s been a great privilege to visit to see these houses come on in the way they are, and I’m really grateful for the opportunity.”

Hillside Road introduces a range of affordable homes, ideal for first-time buyers, downsizers, and buy-to-let investors, while Riverside and Primrose will feature spacious, high-spec family residences.

The Riverside area of the development is set to feature a mix of 21 four-bedroom and six five-bedroom detached homes, all designed with modern living in mind and offering private driveways, off-street parking, and garages.

Finally, Primrose, will comprise of eight five-bedroom detached homes, each benefiting from generous plots, dedicated parking, and secure garage space.

Tzana Webster, Head of Estate Agency at Ralph Sayer said: “Our team has been in regular contact with Mr. Cole-Hamilton, so it was a pleasure to finally welcome him on-site and showcase the progress we’ve made in breathing new life into these homes for future residents.

“With new homeowners now settling into Hillside Road, we expect this phase of the development to be fully sold out by the end of the quarter.

“As we move into the next stage, our focus is on finalising the show homes at Riverside and Primrose, preparing them for viewings.

“Given the incredible demand we’ve already experienced, we’re confident these homes will be just as sought after, if not more, than those at Hillside Road.”

Located by the River Almond and set within mature woodlands, the site enjoys a prime semi-rural setting while maintaining strong connections to sought-after areas like Cammo, Cramond, and Dalmeny.

Originally established in 1939 to house military families, the development played a key role in the 1945 German surrender in Norway and later served as the Scottish Army HQ, home to regiments such as The Black Watch until its closure in 2014.

Blending contemporary living with a rich heritage, Craigiehall Meadows offers a rare opportunity to enjoy natural surroundings with convenient city access.

Those interested in the development can register their interest here – https://www.craigiehall-meadows.co.uk/

Viewings are now open and those interested can contact Ralph Sayer on 0131 225 5567 | property@ralphsayer.com to book in a viewing appointment for the 2 Bedroom Juniper or the 3 Bedroom Poplar. 

Bookings are strictly by appointment only.

More support for Scottish universities

Further £10 million for Scottish Funding Council to support the university sector

Additional support is to be made available through the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) to support universities facing financial challenges.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said an additional £10 million will be provided to the SFC to support higher education institutions such as the University of Dundee as they navigate current financial challenges.

It brings total additional support for the sector from the Scottish Government to £25 million, on top of the £1.1 billion in the 2025-26 budget for university teaching and research.

The Scottish Government will convene a range of expertise from across the higher education sector, government, and Dundee City Region to support the University of Dundee while it develops its Financial Recovery Plan. This is in addition to work already underway by the SFC, which engages closely with universities on financial sustainability.

Ms Gilruth said: “The Scottish Government is providing an additional £10 million support package to assist universities such as Dundee with navigating immediate financial challenges. This is on top of the £15 million of extra support previously announced for the sector in February.

“Ministers have held further meetings with the University of Dundee, unions and the Scottish Funding Council this week, building on the extensive engagement that has already taken place with the institution since financial issues came to light.

“Both the Higher Education Minister and I have conveyed our deep concern at the level of job losses currently being discussed at the University. While the University is an autonomous institution, it is our clear expectation that the University’s leadership works with us, and engages fully with staff and trade unions, to explore all options to protect jobs.

“Work will continue in the coming days to convene the right range of expertise from across government, the sector, and the wider city region to support the institution as it continues to develop its Financial Recovery Plan.

“Scotland’s universities play a pivotal role in the economy and wider society, and they must be supported to thrive into the future. This support package is another clear sign of the Scottish Government’s commitment to support the sector with financial challenges – challenges which have been compounded by UK Government policies on migration and employer National Insurance contributions.” 

Chief Executive of Scottish Funding Council Francesca Osowska said: “We welcome Scottish Ministers’ continued commitment to the tertiary sector and confirmation of this additional funding.

“Recognising the particular challenges facing the University of Dundee, we look forward to engaging with a wide range of partners to secure its continued success as a world-renowned University delivering excellent outcomes for learners and researchers and contributing to economic growth and social wellbeing.”

The additional £10 million capital funding has been identified from within the education portfolio.

Green, growing and successful?

EDINBURGH by NUMBERS 2024 REPORT PUBLISHED

Edinburgh remains one of the most prosperous and green places to live in the UK, according to findings collated by the City of Edinburgh Council. 

The 18th annual Edinburgh by Numbers is based on data from a variety of sources including the ONS, National Records of Scotland and the Scottish Household Survey.

Looked at together, the figures reveal that residents in the Scottish capital are 1.5 times more likely to take up cycling and running – with most (74%) able to enjoy local green spaces within a five minute walk from home.

With 144 parks making up almost half of the city (49%), 92% of people surveyed are satisfied with local green spaces and Edinburgh has almost halved greenhouse gas emissions over the last decade (by 40.9% since 2012).

Highlighting the city’s economic resilience, Edinburgh has retained its position as the UK’s most economically productive city outside of London with some of the highest wages, skilled workers and employment.

Tourism continues to recover from the pandemic, with hotel occupancy rates at their highest in 6 years (81.4%) and 5 million visitors staying overnight in Edinburgh, and air and travel also rebounding.

The city is growing almost three times faster than the rest of Scotland and house prices are valued at the highest in the country. In 10 years, our population has grown by 8.4% to 523,250 people but for the first time, fewer babies are being born.

Further statistics reveal:  

  • Edinburgh’s weather is changing, with April to June now the wettest months
  • Finance leads Edinburgh’s local economy, generating £7.2 billion – that’s as much as the next three largest sectors combined
  • Satisfaction with public transport is very high at 86% of those surveyed, well above Scotland’s 64% average
  • There are more university students in Edinburgh than school pupils (together, they make up 161,000 of the population)
  • 75.8% of workers have a degree, which is far higher than other UK cities
  • Audiences are eager to return to top rated visitor attractions and events with visitors flocking to Edinburgh Castle (1.9m visitors) the National Museum of Scotland (2.19 million visitors) and the festivals (4.59 million in person and online attendees).

Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “This edition of Edinburgh by Numbers reminds us of the strength and success of our capital city, which continues to punch far above its weight as a place to live, work, invest in and visit.

“Thanks to our fantastic parks and air quality, ‘Auld Reekie’ is no more. We’re leading the way in climate consciousness and outdoor living – with the data pointing to more of us cycling and running, high satisfaction rates with public transport and positive scores for wellbeing.

“We know that the results of Edinburgh by Numbers are hotly anticipated by professionals from across the tourism sector at home and abroad, and the outlook for hospitality is healthy – people are flocking back to the city’s main attractions and festivals and 5 million visitors are staying overnight. That’s 40% of Scotland’s total overnight tourism with hotel occupancy rates their highest in six years (81.4%).

“So, we’re getting outdoors and we’re enjoying our city and, in this report, there is much to celebrate. That said, these numbers also speak to the challenges Edinburgh faces. Drawn by good jobs and a good quality of life, migration means our population is growing three times faster than other Scottish cities. We’re living longer, but the birth rate has dropped. Many residents are struggling with the cost of living – meaning poverty and homelessness remain two of the biggest challenges of our time

“All of this leads to unprecedented demand for homes and public services. Initiatives such as our affordable housebuilding programme, Visitor Levy, climate adaptation and better connectivity around the city will give us more resources and solutions for sustainably managing Edinburgh’s continued economic success and growth.”

Denise Hamilton, Head of Communications at Cycling Scotland, commented: “It’s really encouraging to see 68% of short trips now being made on foot or by bike in Edinburgh. New dedicated cycle routes, like the City Centre West to East Link and Leith Walk, are showing big increases in the proportion of journeys being cycled, compared with other transport.  

“As Edinburgh continues to build its planned citywide network of safe, on-street cycle lanes, it’s likely more and more people will choose to get around by bike and benefit from being active, saving money and getting to their destination quickly. And everyone living in or visiting Edinburgh can enjoy cleaner air and less congestion.”

Edinburgh_by_Numbers_2024Download

 

Starmer: ‘The ball is in Russia’s court, Putin must stop delaying tactics’

The ‘Coalition of the Willing’ will meet today as world leaders drive forward action to support a just and enduring peace for Ukraine

  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer to host around 25 leaders for virtual call in further push for peace
  • Comes as President Putin tries to play games with President Trump’s peace plan
  • Keir Starmer will say countries need to strain every sinew to further ramp up economic pressure on Russia and force Putin into negotiations

The ‘Coalition of the Willing’ will meet today as world leaders drive forward action to support a just and enduring peace for Ukraine.

Around 25 countries, including European partners, the EU Commission, NATO, Canada, Ukraine, Australia and New Zealand are expected to join the virtual meeting tomorrow morning. 

The Prime Minister will tell leaders that now is the time for concrete commitments as President Putin tries to play pointless games with President Trump’s peace plan.

He will say that countries need to ratchet up economic pressure on Russia, to force Putin into negotiations, in the short term and be prepared to support a just and enduring peace in Ukraine over the long term and continue to ramp up our military support to Ukraine to defend themselves against increasing Russian attacks.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “We can’t allow President Putin to play games with President Trump’s deal. The Kremlin’s complete disregard for President Trump’s ceasefire proposal only serves to demonstrate that Putin is not serious about peace.

“If Russia finally comes to the table, then we must be ready to monitor a ceasefire to ensure it is a serious, and enduring peace, if they don’t, then we need to strain every sinew to ramp up economic pressure on Russia to secure an end to this war. 

“Putin is trying to delay, saying there must be a painstaking study before a ceasefire can take place, but the world needs to see action, not a study or empty words and pointless conditions. 

“My message to the Kremlin could not be clearer: stop the barbaric attacks on Ukraine, once and for all, and agree to a ceasefire now.

“Until then we will keep working around the clock to deliver peace.”

The call is expected to delve further into how countries plan to contribute to the Coalition of the Willing, ahead of a military planning session being held next week.

During the session tomorrow morning, leaders are expected to receive an update on progress made at a Chiefs of Defence meeting held in Paris on Tuesday, and updates from countries on efforts to unlock further military aid for Ukraine. The Prime Minister will also pay tribute to the collective European efforts to step up.

The call follows a week of intensive diplomacy by UK ministers after the Defence Secretary travelled to Paris to meet counterparts from Germany, France, Poland and Italy, and the Foreign Secretary travelled to Canada for G7 Foreign Ministers.

It also follows the Prime Minister’s Lancaster House Summit held a fortnight ago, where he again made clear that we must protect our country in a dangerous new era, and deliver on the foundation of security in the government’s Plan for Change.

The government has already accelerated that work, announcing an increase in defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from 2027, with an ambition to reach 3% in the next parliament.

The National Lottery Open Week returns for Spring 2025 at the National Museum of Flight

As a recipient of National Lottery funding, the National Museum of Flight in East Fortune is inviting players to visit for free on 22 March

This March, the National Lottery will once again be saying thank you to players for the £30 million they raise for good causes every week, supporting vital projects in arts, sports, heritage, and communities nationwide, with National Lottery Open Week.

From Saturday 15th to Sunday 23rd March 2025, the National Lottery Open Week offers players the chance to get outside and explore the UK’s rich history, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture through free and low-cost days out. Anyone with an online or retail National Lottery ticket, Scratchcard or Instant Win Game can enjoy a low-cost day out thanks to special offers at hundreds of National Lottery-funded venues and attractions.

On Saturday 22 March 2025, the National Museum of Flight is offering free entry to National Lottery players.

Visitors to the Museum must book a ticket online in advance of their visit and bring along both their admission ticket and a lottery ticket or scratch card.

Steve McLean, General Manager at the National Museum of Flight said: “We’re delighted to be taking part in The National Lottery Open Week this year.

“We’re grateful to have received National Lottery funding, which has enabled us to redevelop two of our nationally significant Second World War hangars.

“Devoted to military and civil aircraft, they explore a century of aviation, presenting the stories of some of the people who built and flew them. This is our way of saying thank you to everyone who has bought a National Lottery ticket, helped us on our journey and made a contribution to supporting good causes.”

The National Museum of Flight is home to a world class collection of aircraft, from a Supermarine Spitfire to Scotland’s only Concorde.

The attraction houses the family-friendly Fantastic Flight gallery with its interactive exhibits where visitors can explore the science of aviation and discover how aircraft fly. They are also able to learn more about East Fortune’s wartime heritage in the Museum’s Fortunes of War exhibition.

To discover more participating venues, insider tips and how to redeem offers for The National Lottery Open Week visit www.nationallotteryopenweek.com

Terms and conditions and booking instructions across special offers will vary, check the individual offer listing for details.

See www.nationallotteryopenweek.com for full terms and conditions.

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City centre market to host Edinburgh’s leading ethical businesses and help residents ‘buy social’ 

 The Melting Pot is hosting the Buy Social Fair on Saturday 29th March 11am-4pm. The Melting Pot is Scotland’s Centre for Social Innovation and hosts a shared workspace that is home to a plethora of purpose driven businesses.

This debut event will help Edinburgh residents ‘buy social’ with stallholders selling ethical gifts, handmade crafts and foodie delights. 

The Melting Pot will host the first Buy Social Fair on Saturday 29th March 11am – 4pm with gifts, crafts and tasty treats from local sellers doing their bit for people and planet. 

The stalls will range from handmade gifts, Scottish art, delicious food and information about incredible local businesses delivering social impact.  

The Buy Social Fair will take place at The Melting Pot’s home on Calton Road directly behind Waverley Station. The £5 ticket price covers entry to the fair, refreshments and a free day of coworking to redeem at a later date.  

The Melting Pot opened as Scotland’s first “coworking” space in 2007, but during COVID had to close its doors due to the challenges of operating the space during the lockdowns. However, they successfully re-opened in the new Calton Road venue, formerly renowned nightclub The Venue, in 2020. Allowing them to continue supporting a community of remote and hybrid workers, social entrepreneurs and small businesses as they navigate a changing world of work. 

Helen Denny CEO of The Melting Pot said, “We’re so excited to host the first Buy Social Fair. We all know we should shop more ethically, but it can be difficult to know where to go. So, we decided to bring together a whole host of products and people for a market at our city centre venue.

“We’re asking people who are out and about for a Saturday of shopping to come and enjoy an ethical option, supporting our stallholders and their crucial work while making no compromise on quality.  

“Support Buy Social Scotland with a ticket that costs you about the same as a coffee in the city centre. We’ll throw in the coffee for free!” 

Buy Social Scotland is a national campaign run by Social Enterprise Scotland with support from Scottish Government. It urges Scots to use their purchasing power for good by shopping locally, ethically and sustainably.  

The Melting Pot, Social Enterprise Scotland and the Edinburgh Social Enterprise Network have teamed up to run the Buy Social Fair. Helping Edinburgh residents take their pick of ethical products and meet the people behind these businesses that make a difference. 

Chris Martin, CEO of Social Enterprise Scotland says “Scotland is home to so many incredible social enterprises. Buy Social Scotland bridges the gap between these businesses and ethical consumers who want to shop with purpose but may not know where to start. 

“We’re excited to welcome people to the Buy Social Fair at The Melting Pot, where they can discover inspiring products and meet the changemakers driving positive impact across Edinburgh and Scotland.” 

Buy Social Fair stallholders include Edinburgh institutions like the Summerhall Distillery, selling their iconic, locally made spirits. The Grassmarket Community Project, whose artisan woodwork, candles and tartan gifts help fund their work supporting people dealing with multiple complex issues into mainstream education and employment.

And Upmo Retail who reinvest profits from products like handmade eco-resin plant pots, screen printed T-shirts and macramé plant hangers into their work with adults with learning disabilities and autism throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians.  

Stallholder BRO Enterprise is a student-led social enterprise based at Broughton High School. Nadia from BRO Enterprise said, “We set up BRO Enterprise so students at Broughton High School could sell products and raise funds for good causes in our community.

“All profits made from selling our brownies, soaps and sugar scrubs are used to support charities in the local area with a focus on food and hygiene security. We hope to see you at the Buy Social Fair!” 

You can enjoy some delicious food from El Dorado Taqueria, authentic Mexican street food, including tacos, tamales, esquites, and totopos. Their food not only introduces people to new flavours but also builds a deeper appreciation for Mexican heritage. 

And if you’re feeling adventurous try something from the Insect Cafe. 

Nahla from the Insect Cafe said: “We are Scotland’s first culinary space pioneering the use of insects in our creations.

“Our handcrafted, high-protein bakes are made with locally produced insects and wholesome ingredients. We aim to inspire an exciting, nutritious and eco-friendly way of living.

“We’re excited to be at the Buy Social Fair where people can try our delicious treats and we can tell them all about our mission.” 

There will also be a chance to meet some folk from amazing projects like Eat Sleep Ride CIC, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering young people through opportunities to work with and ride horses, and Aileen Carson, who provides coaching for neurodivergent people to help them navigate challenges in the workplace. 

You can buy your ticket for the Buy Social Fair here – the market will be open from 11am – 4pm on Saturday 29th March. 

The future of the Brunton in Musselburgh

Key stakeholders, local councillors, community leaders and representatives from the arts sector gathered for a roundtable discussion on the future of the Brunton Hall in Musselburgh.

Many MSPs and MPs were present including, Martin Whitfield MSP, Colin Beattie MSP, Alison Johnston MSP, Jeremy Balfour MSP, Douglas Alexander MP, and Paul McLennan MSP, showing cross-governmental support for the project.

The meeting, held in response to ongoing challenges facing the historic venue, focused on potential redevelopment, public consultation, and securing funding for a sustainable future.

The discussion, led by key figures such as Sarah Boyack MSP, Councillor Andy Forrest, and representatives from The Brunton Trust and Creative Scotland, highlighted the urgent need to address the deteriorating condition of the Brunton. Following the end of COVID-19, the top floor of the theatre was deemed unsafe, leading to staff being relocated to other areas such as Haddington. Plans are now in place to mothball the building by June.

A major point of discussion was the importance of public consultation, ensuring the local community has a say in the theatre’s future. Stakeholders agreed that any plans must be community-led, with an open call for ideas to explore creative solutions.

As one representative noted: “There will be someone in the public that will have an idea that no one has thought of yet.”

A full public consultation will launch in the next 3-4 weeks to gather community input and assess potential uses for the space.

The estimated cost of demolishing the building currently stands at £3.6 million, a figure likely to increase. Identifying funding sources is the priority, including engagement with key groups.

Discussions included the potential for the Brunton to serve as a multi-use arts centre, supporting local artists and attracting larger productions. The idea of expanding event offerings, such as weddings and touring productions, was also raised as a potential revenue stream.

Calls were made for greater collaboration with the Edinburgh International Festival and other arts organisations to ensure Musselburgh remains a cultural hub.

“There’s no point having an International Festival City if there is nothing offered in Musselburgh,” said a participant.

With strong concerns over maintaining Brunton’s identity and cultural value, stakeholders emphasised that any redevelopment must preserve the theatre’s role as a community hub. Creative Scotland representatives acknowledged the challenges but expressed optimism about potential funding opportunities if a clear and viable plan is developed.

The roundtable concluded with a commitment to keeping the community informed and involved in the next steps. Further meetings will be scheduled as feasibility studies progress, ensuring a transparent and collaborative approach to shaping the future of the Brunton Hall.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP stated: “The Brunton has always been known for being a vibrant community hub.

“Finding venues can be tough, and it is very important, as the Edinburgh International Festival attracts thousands of visitors each year, that we prioritise areas like Musselburgh.”

Youth Vaping Awareness Campaign Hits The Scottish Parliament

VPZ, the UK’s leading vape retailer, took to the streets surrounding Holyrood yesterday in a youth vaping awareness campaign to highlight concerns around super-size disposable vapes in the upcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

A specially designed trailer was outside the Scottish Parliament to shed light on the alarming rise of illicit ‘Big Puff’ vapes and its impact on youth vaping.

The trailer featured two striking 1-tonne containers, one filled with legal 2ml vapes (35000 units) and the other packed with illicit, super-size disposable vapes (9000 units), showcasing the stark visual representation of the challenges the industry and policymakers could face if appropriate measures are not taken.

So-called ‘Big Puff’ vapes exploit a loophole in the vaping law that allows the sale of devices with greater liquid capacity than the legislated 2 ml.

By utilising an external plug-in tank of 10 ml, these vaping units effectively become a 12 ml product, which is 6 times more than the allowed vaping liquid in a disposable device. New devices are being approved by the MHRA weekly, some with more capacity than 12ml.

Despite being considered rechargeable, the super-size vape products are made with a low-quality battery, and an unchangeable coil which effectively makes them single use.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1900196678507856190

Greig Fowler, Director of VPZ – The Vaping Specialist, said: “We hope that our campaign will serve as a wake-up call to policymakers and the public, as it’s crucial that MPs act now to address the dangers of these super-sized disposables before the UK finds itself in the midst of another youth and environmental crisis.

“VPZ is taking a stand against the dangers posed by the unregulated vaping products that threaten to undermine the forthcoming disposable ban in June. Our mission is to highlight the urgent need for action and collaboration to tackle these arising issues to the public.

“Dr Caroline Johnson outlined amendment NC9 which would bring this area into check, however, that was discussed and rejected following a vote. The problem needs addressed now and not in 12-18 months’ time when the Bill is passed.

“If we fail to respond decisively now, we risk further harm to young people, an environmental disaster, and undermining vaping’s role as a smoking cessation tool, which has helped millions to quit smoking.

“We must work together to strike the right balance, protecting smokers and ex-smokers while preventing further damage to public health and the environment.”

VPZ strongly supports most of the Tobacco & Vapes Bill measures to tackle youth access, including restriction of naming, packaging, and marketing.

However, it believes that there should be a balanced regulatory approach to protect adult smokers looking to quit while effectively cracking down on illicit and unregulated products in order for the UK to reach its 2030 Smoke-Free goals.

VPZ has previously warned adult vapers that the UK’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill could restrict some the favourite flavours that helped them quit smoking, potentially affecting around 3 million vapers and ex-smokers if passed.

VPZ has over 185 stores in the UK and has helped over 1 million smokers quit since it was established in 2012.