A concerning number of adults in Scotland risk leaving grieving loved ones without access to cherished memories and vital information by neglecting to plan for their digital legacy, a new survey by Will Aid shows.
The national Will-writing campaign has revealed 44% of respondents in Scotland overlooked the critical need to include digital assets in estate planning – meaning friends and family may face significant challenges in the event of their death, including the loss of treasured photographs, and difficulties in managing financial affairs.
As the world becomes increasingly digital, our online lives leave behind an important, but often overlooked, legacy.
The rise of digital banking, cloud storage, and the prevalence of social media means that a person’s online presence and assets can be just as valuable – if not more so – than their physical belongings. Yet, many individuals fail to consider this when preparing their Will, so sorting out the deceased’s estate becomes a more complicated task than it needs to be, adding stress to an already difficult time.
Michael Cressey, from Hadfield Bull and Bull Solicitors, said: “In an age where so much of our lives are online, ensuring loved ones have access to your digital accounts after you die is crucial.
“Many people do not realise how much valuable information is stored in their email and online profiles – from financial records to cherished photographs. Failing to leave clear instructions and passwords can cause significant emotional and logistical hardship for those left behind.
“Leaving instructions for digital assets in a safe way not only ensures access to important assets but can also help loved ones manage practical matters such as closing accounts, settling bills, and even notifying institutions of the death. There are ways that you can update your online accounts with Apple iPhone by using the ‘legacy’ function in your phone settings, which will help you plan for the future.”
The annual Will Aid campaign sees solicitors across the UK volunteering their time to write Wills throughout November, making it an ideal opportunity for people to get their wishes professionally drafted in a legal document, which will help to protect their loved ones in the future.
Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid Campaign Director, said: “By planning ahead, individuals can help ensure their online legacy is managed according to their wishes, and spare their loved ones from additional stress.
“This year’s Will Aid campaign is the ideal time to talk to a solicitor, and ensure their wishes are clearly documented, giving them peace of mind that their loved ones will be spared additional upset and stress in the event of their death.”
Will Aid is a partnership between the legal profession and seven of the UK’s best-loved charities.
The initiative, which has been running for more than 30 years, sees participating solicitors waive their fee for writing basic Wills every November.
Instead, they invite clients to make an upfront donation to Will Aid – a suggested £100 for a single basic Will and £180 for a pair of basic ‘mirror’ Wills.
Appointments are available now, and you can sign up by visiting www.willaid.org.uk
Donations to the campaign are shared by Will Aid’s partner charities, which operate both here in the UK and around the world.
For more information on Will Aid and how to get involved visit www.willaid.org.uk
Specially trained Public Order Officers will again be deployed during Bonfire Night to protect local policing teams from attack.
As part of Police Scotland’s Operation Moonbeam, existing resources across Scotland can be supplemented with public order officers whenever they respond to fireworks offences taking place.
Since Operation Moonbeam was first launched in 2018, the number of criminal incidents involving fireworks has decreased. However, last year officers responding to reports of disorder and antisocial behaviour in certain parts of the country were subjected to unprecedented levels of aggression and violence.
In total, 62 officers sustained a range of injuries after being struck by, or in proximity of, a firework that was thrown towards them.
This year’s Operation Moonbeam was launched at a joint event in Glasgow Green, alongside Crimestoppers and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, who both launched their own initiatives aimed at deterring the criminal and reckless use of fireworks.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam, said: “What we saw last year was an unacceptable level of hostility and violence, which was primarily directed at police officers and, for the most, was instigated by adults linked to organised crime, who provided young people with fireworks and other weapons and encouraged them to attack officers.
“This horrific behaviour jeopardised the safety and wellbeing of those who were trying to keep communities safe. Significant investigation was undertaken in the weeks and months that followed and numerous people were charged in connection with these incidents.
“I want to make it clear that those responsible for endangering the lives of police officers, other emergency service workers, or members of the public will be identified, and they will be brought to justice. In the event you avoid being caught on the night, you can expect a visit from us once we have conducted our inquiries.
“I would ask the public to work alongside us in helping make Bonfire Night a safe and enjoyable occasion and to report any criminality you witness, or any suspicions you may have that others are seeking to do harm within our communities.”
The latest edition of the Amazon Economic Impact Report is released today, and the figures show that since 2010, Amazon has invested more than £3.5 billion in Scotland. The figures are taken from the latest Amazon Economic Impact Hub, which details the investments made by Amazon across the UK since 2010.
The 2024 Amazon UK Economic Impact Hub features data on the number of jobs Amazon has created regionally and the level of the company’s economic activity supported by its investments. The figures also show the number of local, independent SMEs supported by Amazon and the export sales achieved by businesses who sell products on Amazon.
The 2024 Amazon Economic Impact Report reveals:
Since 2010, Amazon has invested around £2.6 billion in Eastern Scotland and over £3.5 billion in Scotland.
This investment led to the production of goods and services that contributed over an estimated £3 billion to Scotland’s GDP since 2010.
To date, Amazon has created around 3,000 full and part-time jobs in Scotland.
More than 130 people in Scotland have completed Amazon’s employability skills training programme since 2010.
More than 200 apprentices in Scotland have qualified from the Amazon Apprenticeship programme since 2010.
In Scotland, there are around 4,000 small and medium-sized businesses selling on Amazon as independent selling partners.
Small businesses from Scotland selling on Amazon recorded over £160 million of export sales in 2023. Small businesses in Eastern Scotland selling on Amazon recorded over £85 million of export sales in 2023.
The Big House Multibank in Fife, co-founded by Amazon and former Prime Minister Gordon Brown in 2022, has donated over 2 million surplus goods to families in need across Scotland
Jamie Strain, General Manager at Amazon in Dunfermline, said: “We’re passionate about supporting the regional economy and the wider Scottish community through investments, job creation, charity donations and volunteering.
“Amazon continues to make a positive impact, including upskilling our employees and helping small businesses in our community reach new heights.
“While we continue to invest in the regional economy, we’re also stepping up our support of community organisations in Dunfermline.
“In 2024, our team has supported a wide range of organisations including Scot Baby Box Appeal, Lochgelly High School and CHAS through employee volunteering, product donations and financial support.
“We’re excited to continue supporting good causes over the coming months while we deliver for customers, sellers and communities.”
A 26-year-old man has been arrested and charged following an extensive investigation into a series of housebreakings and thefts across the Lothians and Borders.
The incidents took place in Tranent, Prestonpans, Galashiels, Selkirk, Livingston, Gorebridge and Stow, between Friday, 6 September and Thursday, 10 October, 2024.
The man has been charged in connection with a number of offences, including 13 housebreakings, four attempted housebreakings and five vehicle thefts.
He is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today – Tuesday, 22 October, 2024. Further enquiries remain ongoing.
Detective Inspector Debbie Duncan said: “Crimes of this nature have a serious impact on the victims, causing them to question the safety and security of their own homes, and I would like to commend the work of the officers investigating this crime series.
“I would also like to thank the various local communities for their assistance with our enquiries to date and reassure the public that any reports of criminality will be investigated thoroughly by Police Scotland.”
FOUR CAPITAL CITY COUNCILLORS IN THE RUNNING FOR AWARDS
44 local councillors from across England, Wales and Scotland have been shortlisted for the 2024 LGIU and CCLA Cllr Awards, showcasing the vital contributions of councillors for the 15th year running in England and Wales and 7th year in Scotland.
Four City of Edinburgh councillors have made the shortlist this year.
The capital councillors shortlisted are Cammy DAY (Leader of the Year), Norman WORK (Lifetime Legend) Ben PARKER (Young Councillor of the Year) and Finlay McFARLANE (Innovator of the Year).
The full England & Wales shortlist is available here and Scotland shortlist can be found here.
Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive, Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) said: “The judging panel was blown away by the number of extremely high quality nominations this year, with councillors up and down the country going the extra mile for residents.
“The shortlist for the 2024 Cllr Awards contains the most devoted elected representatives in England, Wales and Scotland.
With councils operating under enormous pressure, these Awards are a hugely important way to champion what councillors achieve in the places we live. Congratulations to all the councillors nominated and shortlisted and I look forward to announcing the winners in November.”
Winners in England & Wales will be announced at the Guildhall in London on Wednesday 20 November while winners in Scotland will be revealed at the City Chambers in Edinburgh on Thursday 14 November.
The Cllr Awards judging panels comprise senior councillors and leading stakeholders from across the sector. These are the only national awards to celebrate and showcase the work of individual councillors.
This year’s awards are made possible thanks to the generous support of founding partners CCLA.
Rugby legend kicks off the appeal with tour of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh
Scotland rugby coach Gregor Townsend officially launched the Scottish Poppy Appeal 2024 today and said it was a “real privilege” to be involved.
The former Gala RFC player visited Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory at the Poppyscotland site in Edinburgh for a tour of the historical premises and took the opportunity to chat with staff about the importance of the charity.
Rugby legend Gregor, whose playing career spanned two decades for both club and country and included spells at Brive, Montpellier and Border Reivers to name a few, was highly impressed with Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and the intricate work that goes into making the iconic Scottish poppies, wreaths and other symbols of Remembrance.
The former Scotland and British Lions star was also impressed to learn that Lady’s Haig Poppy Factory only employs disabled ex-service personnel, breaking down barriers for veterans who otherwise may struggle to find employment.
The charity also attracts dozens of volunteers of all ages, including those from the cadets and corps, who are all there to contribute to making a difference to the lives of both current and former members of the Armed Forces.
Gregor said: “It’s a real privilege to be here. Seeing veterans working, contributing like they did before. They enjoy what they do, knowing it is for a greater cause.
“On behalf of Scottish Rugby, we have a strong link with Poppyscotland and Remembrance. We wear poppies on our jerseys and the players really appreciate that link with history, especially playing our games throughout the month of November.
“Every year Poppyscotland supports hundreds of veterans and their families, helping them live life fully after service.
“Show them you care, wear a poppy. Your donation can change lives for our Armed Forces community.”
Head of Fundraising and Learning at Poppyscotland, Gordon Michie, said: “Wearing your poppy shows serving personnel, veterans, and their families, that their service and sacrifice means something to you, that it is appreciated and recognised. Importantly, it also shows that such service will never be forgotten.
“All funds raised will go to support our life-changing work, providing advice and welfare support to the Armed Forces community in Scotland.”
The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with more than three million poppies already being distributed around the country.
The money raised from the Appeal has enabled Poppyscotland to help countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life.
People can find out more and support the Scottish Poppy Appeal at www.poppyscotland.org.uk.
Sight loss charity RNIB Scotland is celebrating 200 years of braille, the revolutionary writing system for blind and partially sighted people.
Developed by Louis Braille in 1824, it uses raised dots to represent letters, numbers, punctuation, and abbreviations. Braille has not only stood the test of time but continues to evolve, offering individuals with sight loss a vital means of communication, independence, and empowerment.
Jim McCafferty, a long-standing advocate for accessible formats who is originally from Glasgow but has spent most of his life in Edinburgh, reflects on his lifelong relationship with braille: “Braille has had a massive and very positive impact on my life, and to be perfectly honest, I really do not know how I could do without it. It has allowed me to enjoy an independent and varied life, both personally and professionally.”
Jim, who was registered blind at age three and first learned braille at the Royal Blind School in Edinburgh, went on to build a career in braille production and proofreading, working for over 40 years. His dedication to promoting accessible formats also saw him serve on the board of UKAAF (UK Association for Accessible Formats), where he edited the magazine Format Matters for nearly 11 years.
Reflecting on his experiences, Jim credits braille with being an indispensable tool that enables people with sight loss to remain engaged in daily life. “I use braille to keep my records up to date—whether it’s bank details, utility information, or passport numbers. I still read a lot, but if I want to ensure that information is kept confidential, I write it in braille.”
As a champion of braille, Jim highlights the urgent need for more braille teachers to ensure this essential skill continues to benefit future generations. “There just aren’t enough braille teachers. If more people could spread the word and teach this marvellous means of communication, more vision-impaired people—and even their sighted peers—would be encouraged to learn it.”
Jim also speaks of the evolving role of braille in the modern digital world. “In recent years, devices containing a braille keyboard and display have been developed, which has helped to promote the reading and writing system. What I find gratifying is the introduction of reasonably priced note-takers, such as the Orbit and Braille Me, making braille more accessible to people around the world.”
The anniversary of braille’s invention also provides an opportunity for sight loss organisations to come together and promote its importance. Jim states, “It is my firm belief that all organisations of or for vision impaired people should work together more closely. If this is done with braille, an excellent method of communication will have a great future—hopefully for the next 200 years.”
For those just starting their journey with braille, Jim offers some heartfelt advice: “Give learning braille all you’ve got. You don’t need to know the system intricately, but learning the alphabet and numbers will allow you to communicate and keep track of important information. It will help you maintain your independence and improve your life skills.”
Gary Maclean is encouraging amateur chefs across Scotland to take part in the Mary’s Meals Deals Challenge in support of hungry children
MasterChef and long-time Mary’s Meals supporter, Gary Maclean, is asking the nation to take part in the Mary’s Meals Deals Challenge this lunchtime in support of hungry children living in the world’s poorest countries.
Scotland’s national chef, who won MasterChef: The Professionals in 2016, is backing the charity’s Mary’s Meals Deals campaign which encourages people to help transform the lives of 40 hungry children by making a one-off donation or setting up a regular gift equal to the cost of a £4 supermarket meal deal.
Mary’s Meals, founded in a shed in the Scottish Highlands, feeds more than 2.4 million children in 17 of the world’s poorest countries including Ethiopia, Lebanon and South Sudan. Donations ensure that the charity can keep its promise of a daily school meal to the children they feed, while striving to reach the next child waiting.
As well as donating to the international school feeding charity, Gary is encouraging the public to take on the Mary’s Meals Deals Challenge by making a delicious gourmet lunch equivalent to the price of a classic British meal deal.
Gary recently rustled up a scrumptious lunch in the kitchen to inspire others to take part, with a mouth-watering twist on the classic supermarket sandwich, snack and a drink combo.
The celebrity chef prepared a flavour-packed chicken curry accompanied with braised rice and flatbreads, finished with a sweet and healthy raspberry sorbet as a dessert, all for the cost of under £4. You can watch Gary in action in the kitchen on Mary’s Meals’ website.
Gary says: “We all know that a supermarket meal deal is easy and convenient, especially when life gets busy, but nothing beats a home-cooked lunch that all the family can enjoy. And it’s even better when it’s healthy!
“My chicken curry is packed with vegetables and spices that you’ll likely have in your kitchen already. Paired with braised rice and easy to make flatbreads, you’ll have a filling lunch that won’t break the bank. For those who have a sweet tooth, my raspberry sorbet made with yoghurt is the perfect dessert to leave you satisfied.
“Plus, the money saved on a daily meal deal from the supermarket can have a life-changing impact on the lives of vulnerable children around the world. Your donation, no matter how big or small, can give food, education and hope to those who need it most.”
Gary, who is Executive Chef at the City of Glasgow College, has been a long-time supporter of Mary’s Meals.
He says: “The link between education and food is so powerful. The little ones receive a daily school meal which gives them the energy to focus on their studies and gain an education that can lead to a brighter future. That’s why I’m delighted to be supporting Mary’s Meals Deals.
“Every child should have enough to eat and the chance to learn, and by donating even as little as £4 you can help Mary’s Meals ensure that every child is given this opportunity.”
Although the majority of big-name supermarkets offer budget meal deals for less than £4, a survey conducted on behalf of Mary’s Meals found that 70% of Brits are willing to spend even more on the lunchtime offering. And with the food-to-go market expected to grow by 40% by 2028 (1), it’s no surprise that the survey further revealed that 20% of Brits treat themselves to more than one meal deal a week.
By making a donation equal to the cost of a meal deal, supporters can give Mary’s Meals the confidence to plan for the future and serve nutritious school meals to young learners like Chimwemwe from Malawi.
Chimwemwe says: “I love Mary’s Meals porridge because it is nutritious. It makes me healthy and gives me energy while at school!”
This year, any new regular gifts to Mary’s Meals will be matched by a generous donor, up to a value of £250,000, meaning the kindness of supporters will go twice as far.
To find out more about Mary’s Meals Deals and how to make a donation or set up a regular gift, please visit www.marysmeals.org.uk/meal-deal
Gary Maclean’s chicken curry with braised rice and flatbreads, and raspberry sorbet recipe:
Main
Chicken curry
500g Chicken Thighs (boneless)
1 onion chopped
2 whole garlic cloves, peeled
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
1 red pepper, chopped
1 packet of green beans
1 packet of sugar snap peas
2 tbs plain flour
2 tsp madras curry powder
600ml chicken stock (2 chicken stock cubes)
2 tsp honey
1 tbs soy sauce
1 bay leaf
½ tsp garam masala
Method:
To make the sauce, heat the oil in a small pan.
Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes, then add in the carrots and sweat slowly for 10 minutes with the lid on, stir until softened and has started to caramelize.
Stir in the flour and curry powder and cook for a minute.
Slowly pour in the stock until combined.
Add the honey, soy sauce and bay leaf and bring to the boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, so the sauce thickens but is still of pouring consistency.
Add the Garam masala, blend and then pass the sauce through a sieve.
Chop the chicken thighs into four, heat a frying pan add a little oil and drown the chicken pieces until golden brown, alternatively you could also do this in the air fryer if you have one.
Add the browned chicken, packet of green beans, sugar snap peas and chopped red pepper to your sauce and simmer until the chicken is tender.
Rice
1 mug long grain rice
1 ½ mugs water/stock
Method:
I am using a regular coffee mug and that is a great measurement for four people.
Once the rice has soaked place into a pot with a tight-fitting lid, add the water and a pinch of salt.
Place on the lid and slowly cook in the oven @ 170°C for 18 minutes until the rice is cooked.
Once cooked give the rice a stir and add another tablespoon of water and give the rice a stir with a wooden spoon then place the lid back on for at least 15 minutes.
Side
Flat breads
350g self-raising flour
1 ½ tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
½ tsp baking powder
7g sachet dried yeast
160g milk
142ml greek yoghurt
Butter for cooking
Method:
Sieve all dry ingredients together into a large bowl.
Heat the Milk for 1 minute on full power in the microwave and stir in the yoghurt, then dissolve in the yeast making sure the mixture is not too hot.
Add this mixture to the flour and mix with a spoon to bring it together to form a dough.
Knead until smooth then cover with cling film and set to one side until doubled in size.
Divide mixture into 12 ball shaped pieces and roll into the classic tear drop shape.
In a warmed non-stick frying pan brush the naan with the butter and add to the pan colour lightly brush the other side of the naan bread then flip over and colour on both side. I like to get loads of colour onto the bread as I think it tastes like the real thing with lots of colour.
Place into a hot oven at 180˚C for 5-6 minutes.
Dessert
Raspberry sorbet
300g frozen raspberries
150g greek yogurt
50g honey
Method:
The key to this instant sorbet is to make sure the fruit is frozen solid place the raspberries into the blender or food.
Blitz on full power for a few seconds until completely broke down. The fruit should be like a powder.
Next add the yogurt and the honey. Blitz until smooth.
Remove from the machine and pop into a tub, it might need an hour or so in the freezer before use, you can make this in advance and leave in the freezer but it will need to be put in the fridge to soften up for a couple of hours before use.
Using a percentage of each of these purchased ingredients, Gary created his meal deal for under £4.
Hectors in Stockbridge has officially reopened following an extensive 5 week refurbishment, giving the iconic pub an exciting new look.
The pub has been given a facelift while keeping its traditional look and feel inside. Changes include a new hand-carved wooden gantry, brand new furniture and fresh frontage colour scheme.
Hectors is renowned for its friendly and welcoming team, as well as the selection of comforting Scottish pub fayre. The pub itself takes its name from Sir James Hector, a Scottish-New Zealand geologist, naturalist, and surgeon who originated from Stockbridge in 1834.
Guests can tuck into all the pub classics, a chicken and truffled oyster mushroom pie, classic fish and chips and delicious beef brisket burgers, as well as a delectable range of Sunday roasts.
Along with the new food menu, guests will also be greeted with an extensive drinks’ menu, boasting a wide selection of craft beers, British Gins and an exciting range of whisky.
Speaking about the refurbishment, General Manager Alex Bruce at Hectors said: ‘This is an exciting time, not only for Hectors, but for the people of Stockbridge. Our aim is simple, to serve delicious food, great drinks, and friendly service to all of our guests.
“Our fresh new look, matched with our welcoming team, will go hand in hand to provide Stockbridge with an excellent local pub where everyone is welcome.”
Following the extensive refurbishment and significant investment made at the pub, several new jobs have been created for the local area, with the team now ready to pour pints and serve delicious food to guests.
