A team of pioneering young entrepreneurs from the Mary Erskine School will represent Lothian at the Young Enterprise Scotland National Finals.
Trading as ‘Cozy Companionzzz’, the team creates handmade crocheted toys and bracelets, and impressed the judging panel with their entrepreneurial flair.
The Young Enterprise Scotland Company Programme is an immersive programme which provides a real-life learning opportunity that introduces young people from S5 and S6 to the realities of the world of work.
Participants are required to start their own company, running through the key milestones of developing an idea, conducting market research, creating the product or service, promoting that product and ultimately trading it.
Over 2,000 young people take part in the Company Programme every year in Scotland.
Young Enterprise Scotland, Chief Executive, Emma Soanes said: “The Cozy Companionzzz team is an inspiration and I wish them every success in the Scottish finals later this year.
“Setting up and running their own successful company is a wonderful experience and will have given them new skills to take forward into their learning and future careers. So whatever happens at the finals, they are all worthy winners”.
The Lothian Company Finals were sponsored by Bright Red Triangle, Edinburgh Napier University.
The winning team will now go on to represent the Lothian region at The Young Enterprise Scotland Company Programme Finals on Thursday 29th May 2025 at GTG Glasgow.
Grab FREE tickets to watch Nicolas Cage thriller The Surfer ahead of its official release date
• Free preview screenings of The Surfer in over 100 cinemas across the UK ahead of its official release. Part of Escapes, encouraging all to experience the beauty of their local independent cinema
• Escapes is now offering screenings over two dates The Surfer preview on Monday 28 and Tuesday 29 April
• Over 110,000 free cinema tickets have been claimed to date through the Escapes initiative, which began in February 2024
Escapes, supported by the BFI awarding National Lottery Funding, continues its mission to bring independent cinema to audiences across the UK with its next major screening event over two dates in April.
Following the success of previous free screenings, Escapes is excited to announce The Surfer, starring Academy Award-winner Nicolas Cage, as its highly anticipated next film, with free previews available nationwide on Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th April ahead of its official release in the UK (UK release date 09.05.25).
Directed by Lorcan Finnegan, The Surfer tells the gripping story of a man who returns to the sun-drenched beach of his childhood, hoping to share the joy of surfing with his son.
However, his visit takes a dark turn when he is confronted and humiliated by a group of powerful locals. As tensions rise with the searing heat of the summer, he is drawn into an escalating conflict that will push him to the very edge.
Featuring an intense lead performance by Nicolas Cage, alongside Julian McMahon as the formidable antagonist, The Surfer is a psychological thriller packed with sun, surf, and suspense.
Escapes is shining a spotlight on the charm and uniqueness of independent cinema, and has provided over 110,000 free cinema tickets across the UK since it launched in February 2024.
From Nottingham’s Savoy Cinema, the only pre-Second World War cinema still standing in the city, to Whitley Bay’s Jam Jar, Glasgow’s Omniplex, and many more, Escapes will be screening The Surfer at over 100 cinemas nationwide on both Monday 28 April and Tuesday 29 April.
Whether you’re looking to share a memorable experience with loved ones or simply enjoy a feel-good film, this screening promises to be a fantastic evening of entertainment, celebrating the magic of independent films and cinemas across the UK.
With past successful screenings including heartwarming dramedy The Penguin Lessons with Steve Coogan, family friendly favourite The Sloth Lane, and inspiring biopic Mr. Burton, Escapes continues to spotlight the power of independent storytelling. Whether you’re a longtime Nicolas Cage fan or simply looking for an unforgettable night at the movies, this screening promises to be an electrifying cinematic event.
Each piece of research is part of a jigsaw puzzle that makes up a picture of volunteering in Scotland.
We’ve written a report that draws together all this research and presents five headlines about the state of volunteering in Scotland today.
The headlines: a brief overview
Volunteering is in crisis
The Scottish Household Survey reveals that 335,000 people stopped volunteering between 2019 and 2023 which means that there are fewer volunteers for third sector organisations to draw upon to meet increased demand for core services.
The cost of living crisis is closing doors to volunteer participation
Evidence from multiple sources points to the cost of living crisis making it harder for people in Scotland to volunteer. The cost of living crisis s is chipping away at people’s mental wellbeing and resilience as well as making it harder for people to justify the time and expense of participating in leisure activities, which our evidence shows are a crucial pathway into volunteering.
People are missing out on the wellbeing benefits of volunteering, when they need it most
With the decline in volunteer participation, we know that more and more people are missing out on the wellbeing benefits they can experience through volunteering. And, it is often the people who benefit most from volunteering who are missing out, particularly people living with a disability and those with poor physical or mental health.
The deprivation gap is closing, but it isn’t all as it seems
The gap between volunteer participation in Scotland’s least and most deprived areas is getting smaller, but it is not clear whether this is driven by positive social changes. Our evidence shows us that the relationship between deprivation and volunteering is complex, and while the gap is closing there are more questions to consider for ensuring that volunteering is a positive experience for people across all of Scotland’s communities.
The demographic profile of Scotland’s volunteers is changing
There have been multiple shifts in the demographic profile of Scotland’s volunteers, including a decline in volunteering among males, ethnic minorities and working age adults. In our report, we explore = the potential impact of this on future volunteering among retired adults.
To find out about these headlines in more and what evidence supports these conclusions, please read our report.
What action should we take?
Based on the research, we think there are several questions and actionable insights to consider:
Leisure activities, including culture, sport and hobbies, are important pathways into volunteering. What can be done to protect these pathways in light of the impact of the cost of living crisis?
Volunteering can play a role in improving the health and wellbeing of Scottish adults, but it cannot only be for people who have good physical and mental health. What opportunities are there to broaden volunteer participation among those with poor physical and mental health so that they can access the wellbeing benefits of volunteering? How can the third sector encourage decision-makers to recognise the wellbeing benefits of volunteering when introducing or reviewing relevant policy or legislation, including around social prescribing, community health, and employability?
How can we better understand volunteering motivations, behaviours and patterns in Scotland’s most deprived communities so that volunteers are having a positive experience and are not being exploited to fill service gaps?
How can we tackle the barriers working age adults face in participating in volunteering and how can volunteering be promoted as part of people’s transition from work to retirement?
How can VIOs adapt their recruitment and retention strategies to ensure volunteering remains inclusive, especially in light of the uneven impacts of the cost of living crisis on different demographic groups?
We encourage colleagues in the Scottish voluntary sector to grapple with these findings. All our analysis is available for you to explore and use as evidence in your work. This matrix can be used to search for Volunteer Scotland research publications across a range of themes.
Do these headlines marry with your experience of Scottish volunteering? We’d love to hear your perspective and what you think should be done to address the crisis in volunteering. Please contact research@volunteerscotland.org.uk with any questions, comments or research opportunities.
On Tuesday (15 April), police officers carried out a day of action targeting the illegal use of off-road and electric bikes in Edinburgh.
Uniformed and officers in plain clothes, road policing officers and specialist support officers, carried out patrols in the Sighthill and Niddrie Mains areas.
One male rider aged 14 was charged in connection with road traffic offences and his off-road motorbike seized in Calder Drive. A suspected stolen motorbike was also recovered in the same street.
An electric bike was seized in Niddrie Mains Road with further enquiries to be carried out.
Three youths aged 15 were traced in relation to a fire-raising and vandalism in a playing field at a high school. Enquiries are ongoing into this incident.
As a result of enquiries carried out during the day of action, a car stolen from Kirkcaldy in September, 2024, was recovered in the Park Terrace area of Musselburgh.
Detective Sergeant Will Dickson, of the Community Investigation Unit, said: “We regularly receive complaints from our local communities about anti-social behaviour and the illegal use of vehicles.
“We will continue to use all tools available to us to enforce road traffic laws, keep the public safe and deter those intent on causing damage or annoyance through the use of bikes.
“I would ask anyone who uses an off-road motorbike to use it safely and within the law.”
Anyone with concerns or information regarding this type of anti-social behaviour should contact Police Scotland via 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
As families across the UK prepare to make the most of the upcoming bank holiday with picnics and garden get-togethers, Dog Friendly Retreats urges dog owners to be mindful of what’s in their picnic baskets.
While harmless to humans, many popular seasonal treats can be highly toxic to dogs, with some leading to emergency vet visits or worse.
Whether you’re having a weekend away or staying at home, below is a timely roundup of common picnic foods that pose serious health risks to dogs, including:
Grapes and raisins
Whilst grapes and raisins are popular for picnics, especially with children, even a tiny amount can cause kidney failure in dogs. Tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate are found in high concentrations in grapes, and research shows that dogs are particularly sensitive to these acids.
Onions, garlic, and chives
Often found in quiches, salads, and dips, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, these ingredients can damage red blood cells and lead to a serious condition called hemolytic anaemia. Symptoms might not appear immediately, which makes accidental ingestion especially risky, and as these ingredients aren’t always visible, it’s even more important to be aware.
Chocolate and sweet treats
Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic foods for dogs, yet it is still one of the most common causes of dog poisoning, which is something to be conscious of during your spring picnic. Many spring and bank holiday desserts, like brownies, cupcakes, and Easter eggs, may contain enough theobromine (a stimulant found in cocoa) to cause vomiting, seizures, and in severe cases, heart failure.
Cooked bones (especially chicken)
Whilst raw bones are suitable for dogs, the chicken legs or wings you might take on a picnic can splinter and cause internal injuries or choking, which could potentially be fatal. Cooking makes bones brittle, and when chewed, they can splinter into sharp fragments that may puncture a dog’s throat, stomach, or intestines.
Corn on the cob
Whilst corn isn’t toxic to dogs, it can create a significant blockage risk if swallowed, and we all know dogs don’t always chew their food as much as they should, which could lead to expensive surgery to remove.
Josh Williams, owner of Dog Friendly Retreats, commented: “It’s easy to overlook how many picnic staples are dangerous for dogs. Something as innocent as a fruit scone or sausage roll can contain hidden ingredients that cause serious harm.
“Dogs are naturally curious about food, especially outdoors, so prevention and awareness are key. It’s important to watch children too, as they won’t always understand the risk of feeding your dogs these toxic ingredients.”
Your dog also deserves to enjoy the bank holiday picnic, but what foods are safe to share?
Dog-Safe Snacks You Can Share at a Picnic
Carrot sticks
Crisp, low-calorie, and full of fibre, carrots are an excellent snack for dogs. They also help support dental health and are easy to pack in a cooler.
Apple slices (without seeds)
Apples are rich in vitamins A and C; most dogs love the sweet crunch. Just remove the seeds and core, as the seeds contain small amounts of cyanide.
Cucumber slices
Hydrating, low in calories, and gentle on the stomach, cucumbers are a refreshing treat for dogs on warm days.
Plain cooked chicken or turkey (boneless, skinless)
If you’re grilling or packing cold meats, a small amount of plain, unseasoned chicken or turkey makes a protein-rich snack. Just avoid any seasoning, sauces, or bones.
Blueberries or strawberries
These antioxidant-rich fruits are safe in moderation and can even help support brain and heart health. Wash them well and serve fresh (avoid sugary toppings or syrups).
“What if a conversation about suicide could save a life?”
New national campaign co-created by people with lived and living experience of suicide
Asks people to consider, “What if a conversation about suicide could save a life?”
Featuring four people with deeply personal experiences
Website launched to provide information and resources for people concerned for themselves or others
Campaign aims to kick-off Scotland’s biggest ever conversation about suicide
Scotland’s new national suicide prevention campaign goes live today (16 April 2025).
Bold, unflinching, and deeply personal, it’s been entirely co-produced by people with lived and living experience of suicide.
It comes as a new website with a range of information, resources and a new local services directory is launched at suicideprevention.scot.
The campaign asks a simple question, “What if a conversation about suicide could save a life?”
It features four people, each of whom agreed to share their story having been bereaved by, attempted or actively considered suicide.
They do so by writing a letter to a loved one, or themself, which feature in a powerful new film.
The idea behind the campaign is that we need to normalise talking about suicide and give people the confidence to have a conversation that might just save someone’s life.
The four participants are Seonaid Stallan, Ross Cunningham, Clare Collin, and Laura Junor. They came together to share their letters and discuss their experiences, in a series of moving conversations.
In doing so they are creating a gamechanging moment when Scotland will start to have its biggest ever conversation about suicide.
This is important, because suicide is a topic that makes many of us nervous; it can feel like the hardest thing in the world.
What if I say the wrong thing? Could I make the situation worse? Maybe I’m worrying over nothing and would look foolish to bring it up?
But here’s something lots of people don’t realise.
Talking about suicide is the best way to prevent it from happening.
This work is led by Suicide Prevention Scotland, the community of organisations working to deliver the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint suicide prevention strategy, Creating Hope Together.
There are four outcomes that shape the strategy with SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) having responsibility for the key outcome that supports the campaign and website, improving understanding of suicide and tackling stigma.
In addition to those with their own experiences of suicide, the campaign was developed with a group of people which also included those with professional experience and academic expertise. Suicide prevention specialists from local areas (Fife and Ayrshire) were also involved, as was SeeMe, Scotland’s national programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination.
Clare Collin, who wrote her letter to nephew Gerry, but also lost her mum Prue and brother in law Sandy to suicide, comments:
“We knew Gerry was struggling with issues, but we never knew the depth of his pain or thought to ask him, ‘are you thinking about suicide?’
“If you are worried about someone, you should ask. If they are, don’t worry, you don’t need to be an expert, you just need to listen, be patient and compassionate, be there for them and help them find the right support – because it is out there.
“Don’t give up, keep trying until you find the right person to help.”
Suicide Prevention Scotland’s National Delivery Lead Haylis Smith who lost her uncle Joe to suicide says: “This is an extraordinary campaign. It’s deeply moving, extremely personal, and yet is full of hope. It is also very bold, which is no wonder given it was completely co-produced with people who bring their own experiences.
“The message could not be clearer: if you’re worried about someone, ask them how they are, ask them if they are thinking about suicide. Talking about suicide is the best way to prevent it from happening.
“And if you’re worried about yourself, please reach out. It might be the bravest thing you ever have to do, but it will probably be the best thing you ever do, too.”
Minister for Social Care, Mental Health and Wellbeing Maree Todd says: “I’m pleased to see the launch of this new suicide prevention campaign and website, which sit at the heart of Scottish Government and COSLA’s suicide prevention action plan.
“The campaign’s powerful message that talking openly about suicide saves lives, is a clear invitation to us all – and will help tackle the stubborn taboo of suicide.
“Importantly, the campaign provides free digital and physical resources which can be adapted to reach people within different communities. The new website is a great addition to support anyone affected by suicide and aims to encourage more people to speak up and ask for help.”
Cllr Paul Kelly, COSLA’s health and social care spokesperson says: “Within COSLA and across all spheres of government, we recognise the importance of early intervention – providing the right support at the right time as early as possible.
“I’m confident that this campaign will contribute to our early intervention outcomes by prompting people to have vital conversations about suicide that might just save a life. I commend Seonaid, Ross, Clare and Laura for sharing their stories and helping to encourage these conversations.
“They are all active members of our communities with lived and living experience, which is an essential factor in helping to normalise talking about suicide and ensuring people in need are supported within their local communities.”
If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:
Samaritans 116 123 or use the online chat at samaritans.org
Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87
NHS 24 mental health hub on 111
If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.
Develop cooking skills and learn about eating well for good gut health. Join Edinburgh Community Food for their weekly sessions here at PCHP, starting 24th April.
Pupils in Scotland on a unique educational programme have seen a positive impact on their rates of progression to university.
Now in its fourth year, the ground-breaking partnership between the University of Edinburgh, the University of Glasgow and educational charity IntoUniversity has supported thousands of young people in centres in the Craigmillar area of Edinburgh and Glasgow’s Maryhill and Govan.
The ongoing project aims to improve educational opportunities for those who may face challenges during their schooling, with close to 4,000 school pupils accessing the service in the past year alone.
Since the IntoUniversity centres opened, more than 70 per cent of school leavers from the programme have progressed to university or college, compared with the national average of 24 per cent of those from similar backgrounds.
The three centres have teams of specially trained staff who work closely with local schools in areas traditionally associated with social deprivation.
Each centre provides a programme of after-school academic support, mentoring, workshops and work experience for young people aged between seven and eighteen years old.
Free gardening workshop in partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK this Dementia Action Week
Dobbies Garden Centres is hosting a very special FREE Grow How event in its Edinburgh store this May in partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK to mark Dementia Action Week (19-25 May).
Dobbies is highlighting the benefits of garden living for brain health and raising vital funds to find a cure for dementia through this free-to-attend workshop at the Edinburgh store.
Gardening is a great activity to highlight this Dementia Action Week, as it’s a hobby that can help look after our brain health. Physical activity, learning new skills and keeping connected with others are just some of the things we can do to help reduce our risk of dementia.
May’s Grow How event, Love Your Lawn, will take place in the Edinburgh store on Saturday 3 May and Wednesday 7 May at 10:30am and 3:30pm, giving customers of all ages and gardening abilities the chance to learn something new or finesse their gardening skills.
These popular live Grow How demonstrations are flexible, fun and interactive, taking around 15 minutes. Dobbies’ Green Team will give a demonstration around lawn care, taking customers back to the basics and illustrating the importance of maintenance for a healthy lawn.
During the session there will be an activity centred around repairing a lawn with grass plugs, giving everyone the chance to give it a go. There will also be the chance to ask any questions relating to lawn care. The talk will be supported with a selection of general top tips and products such as grass seed, lawn feed and tools to keep your grass in tip top shape.
The Green Team at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store will then share information on Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Think Brain Health campaign, which aims to educate people about the steps they can take to look after their brains and help reduce the risk of dementia.
It’s focused on three simple rules – love your heart, stay sharp and keep connected. Lawn maintenance is a great task for keeping physically and mentally active through gardening and garden living.
Dobbies’ Plant Buyer, Nigel Lawton, shares his excitement for getting everyone, no matter their lawn care experience. He said: “Spring is the perfect time to take care of your lawn and prepare it for the warmer months ahead, and we are here to help customers feel confident.
“Our Green Team are full of advice and expertise, with knowledge on the best products and tools to care for the lawn. They’ll be on-hand at the Edinburgh store to troubleshoot any currents gardening queries and give those who have little knowledge on lawn care a strong understanding of how easy it can be to stay on top of when regularly maintained.
“Our free Grow How demonstration is in partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK, a fantastic charity raising funds to find a cure for dementia. We’d encourage all attendees to donate, if they can, to this important cause.”
Samantha Benham-Hermetz, Executive Director at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We’re delighted that Alzheimer’s Research UK will become part of Dobbies’ Grow How sessions during Dementia Action Week.
“As well as getting the chance to learn how to make the most of their gardens this spring, people can find out how to show their brains some love and help reduce their risk of dementia.
“Research shows that nearly half of all dementia cases could be prevented by addressing risk factors we can influence. But despite this, only a third of people in the UK realise it is possible to reduce their risk.
“We’re really proud to be working with Dobbies to raise much-needed awareness of the actions people can take for their brain health, while also raising vital funds for a cure for dementia.”
The garden centre is also inviting local groups, schools and causes who applied to Dobbies Community Gardens along to stores on Saturday 3 May.
Dobbies’ Green Team will be announcing the successful group, who will receive a selection of products and tools, alongside gardening advice and volunteer hours.
