Researchers find new way to “reenergise” immune cells
SUPERCHARGING immune cells could provide an effective way to tackle cancer, according to new research by scientists in Scotland.
The team at the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute in Glasgow studied how the immune system works and why it becomes “exhausted” by cancer.
T cells, which are the immune system’s front line against disease, eventually become overcome by cancer allowing it to grow.
Their research, published in Cell Reports, has identified a potential way to “boost” T cells, a key defence against cancer.
Lead researcher Professor Victoria Cowling, of the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute and University of Glasgow, said:“T cells need to rapidly multiply and produce proteins to fight off infections. That requires a huge amount of energy.
“We’ve discovered that a little-known enzyme, called CMTR1, helps switch on the energy supply by changing how certain genes work.
“If we can find ways to boost this process, we could improve how the immune system responds to cancer which could be a game-changer in how we treat the disease.”
CMTR1 plays a vital role in energising T cells, acting as a switch to help the immune cells ramp up their energy production.
The team found that CMTR1 tweaks the instructions inside cells — known as RNA — so that the right versions of energy-related proteins are made.
These proteins help shape the mitochondria, which are like tiny batteries inside cells. With the right shape, mitochondria can produce more energy, helping T cells stay strong and active.
Without CMTR1, the mitochondria break apart and don’t work properly, leaving T cells weak and unable to fight off infections effectively. With CMTR1 present, T cells have more energy allowing them to proliferate and fight infection.
Next steps would be to identify new or existing treatments which increase CMTR1 to give exhausted T cells the power to tackle cancer cells.
Cancer Research UK Director of Research, Dr Catherine Elliott, said:“Scientific breakthroughs like this have the potential to transform how we see and, crucially, how we treat cancer.
“Our immune system is a key area of cancer research and scrutinising how it works can help create real-world impact for those affected by cancer.”
In Scotland, around 34,800* people are diagnosed with cancer each year, with around 16,400** people dying from the disease annually, so finding new ways to tackle the disease is vital.
The study was funded by Cancer Research UK, the European Research Council, the Medical Research Council, and the Wellcome Trust.
Our Community Pantries offer a unique, low cost way to access a variety of foods, including Chilled and fresh produce, and ambient cupboard staples.
We’re working so that no one suffers from food insecurity – it’s part of our work tackling the causes and consequences of homelessness.
Find our pantries at St Brides Centre, Goodtrees Community Centre, The Neighbourhood Centre, The Ripple, Hibernian Community Foundation, Valley Park Community Centre and Southside Community Centre.
Edinburgh Leisure is kicking off the new year by giving primary-aged children the chance to discover a new passion – without the commitment.
Their popular ‘Next Big Thing’ Coaching Tasters are here, offering £3 taster sessions from 26 January – 1 February, plus an exclusive half-price February coaching offer when you sign up on the day.
The campaign aims to spark curiosity and encourage kids to try something new, from swimming and gymnastics to tennis and more. All sessions are delivered by expert instructors in a fun, friendly environment.
“Sports coaching isn’t just about learning a skill – it’s about building confidence, making friends, and staying active,” said Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.
“Our tasters give families the chance to explore what works for their child before committing to a full programme.”
With only 59% of school-aged children meeting recommended daily activity levels, Edinburgh Leisure is urging parents to help their children find their next big passion through sport.
Why Join?
Fun, friendly coaching for all abilities
Expert instructors to guide every step
A great way to stay active, make friends, and build confidence
Flexible options across the city
Book Now:Explore available sessions and sign up at:
Make this January the start of something big – because diving, swimming, gymnastics, basketball, athletics, badminton, tennis or football could be your child’s Next Big Thing.
New day one rights to parental leave set for April
Over 18 million workers across the UK to benefit from stronger protections at work, with most insecure workers set to gain the most.
New day one rights from April confirmed for parental leave, whilst bereaved partners set to gain further rights to paternity leave.
Changes create more secure jobs and raise living standards, ensuring economic growth is felt by working people in every part of the UK.
Millions of workers who were previously denied time off for the birth of their child will become eligible for new day one rights to parental leave from April, through measures being laid at Westminster today (Monday 12 January).
The changes, which stem from the recently passed Employment Rights Act, will see parents no longer be forced to make the heart-wrenching choice between being there for the first weeks of their child’s life or going back to work to avoid losing their job.
An additional 32,000 more dads per year will be able to access Paternity Leave immediately, as a mother would with maternity leave.
This comes as the Government continues its Parental Leave and Pay Review, which will assess the whole system – from maternity and paternity leave to shared parental leave – to see how it can work better for parents and employers.
Around 390,000 people are estimated to be out of work due to caring responsibilities but want a job, including parents. The reforms to parental leave include the right to take Unpaid Parental Leave from the first day in a new job, giving a further 1.5 million parents more flexibility to share caring responsibilities.
If even 1% of those out of work were able to take up a part-time job as a result of this move, it could boost economic output by around £150m a year.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:“For too long, working people were left without the basic rights and security they deserve. That ends now.
“The changes we’re bringing in will mean every new parent can properly take time off when they have a child, and no one is forced to work while ill just to make ends meet. This is about giving working families the support they need to balance work, health and the cost of living.
“We’re delivering a modern deal for workers. Stronger sick pay, parental leave from day one, and protections that put dignity back at the heart of work. Because when we respect and reward those who keep Britain running, we build a stronger economy for everyone.”
Business Secretary Peter Kyle said:“No one should have to worry about whether they can take time off when their baby arrives, or lose pay simply because they’ve fallen ill.
“Our improvements to sick pay and parental leave are about giving workers and their families the security they deserve. They will ensure our drive for growth reaches everyone through providing secure, fair paying jobs and giving support to people when they need it most.”
Following campaigning from individuals such as Aaron Horsey, a new Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave will also be introduced from April, providing up to 52 weeks of leave for fathers and partners who lose their partner before their child’s first birthday. This fixes the previously unfair system where bereaved partners had to rely on the compassion of an employer in order to be granted time off to grieve and care for their child.
Aaron Horsey, campaigner for Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave, said: “Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave ensures that new parents and their employers have a clear route for support at one of the most difficult moments imaginable. It gives them the time and space they need to grieve, care, and begin to rebuild their lives with dignity.
“By embedding this protection in law, it shows how listening to lived experience can lead to practical, compassionate change that will support families for generations to come.”
Analysis published last week showed that over 18 million workers are set to benefit from the Government’s wider Plan to Make Work Pay, with it particularly supporting the lowest-paid workers, those in insecure jobs, and people facing unfair treatment at work.
The benefits in the Employment Rights Act significantly outweigh the costs. By restricting exploitative practices like unscrupulous fire and rehire, and giving more workers access to flexible working and guaranteed hours contracts, this country will see improved worker wellbeing, boosted productivity, and a more level playing field for employers. This is all worth billions of pounds per year and is expected to deliver a small yet positive impact on economic growth.
The government is also bringing in changes to ensure up to 1.3 million additional workers in lower-paid or part-time roles are able to access Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and make sure everyone can access it from the first day of illness.
This is a substantial shift from the former three-day wait for SSP to kick in, which left people working whilst ill risking increased long-term sickness, one of key factors draining British businesses and the wider economy.
By improving the quality of work and ensuring that everyone has job security when it matters most, the Government is delivering on its mission to drive growth that is felt by everyone.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said:“The Employment Rights Act will deliver vital common-sense reforms for millions of people across the country – including sick pay for all workers and better leave for parents.
“Britain will now be brought into line with other countries where workers already have better protections. And crucially, the legislation will give working people the higher living standards and secure incomes that are needed to build a decent life.
“Good employers will also welcome these changes – the Act protects them from competitors whose business models are built on low-paid, insecure employment.”
Simon Kelleher, Head of Policy and Influencing at Working Families, said:“Day-one rights for paternity and unpaid parental leave are a positive step forward. Removing the 26-week qualifying period means parents can change jobs without losing essential leave entitlements, something we know has held many people back and can trap families in roles that no longer work for them.
“To build on this progress, we are looking forward to continuing our engagement with the Government’s ongoing Parental Leave Review to ensure all parents can access a meaningful period of leave.”
Niall Mackenzie, Acas Chief Executive, said:“It can be hugely stressful if a worker is not paid during an illness or dealing with a major life upheaval like a birth or bereavement.
“These new measures give greater protections for working people that get ill, and create capacity to handle unpredictable moments when they need it the most. Reducing stress and anxiety for staff can also help support good relationships with employers and support business growth.”
RANKED THE MOST ATTRACTIVE SHOPPING CENTRE IN SCOTLAND
M Core, owners of The Centre, Livingston invests almost £5m on the regeneration of the shopping centre, which includes launching a new leisure hub later this year and a new sustainability programme which includes reusing pallets for planters and bug hotels.
Since acquiring The Centre, Livingston less than two years ago, M Core has delivered a comprehensive ‘repositioning’ of the shopping centre, which is one of Scotland’s largest retail destinations, spanning 1m sq. ft. and attracting 15.4m visitors a year.
The regeneration programme has focused on strengthening its retail, leisure and social offer while ensuring long-term sustainability for the local community.
In 2025 the shopping centre welcomed various new brands, including Wingstop, a 90-seater Starbucks, Sostrene Grene, MINISO and Flying Tiger, with more new openings in the pipeline this year and expansions, including JD Sports, which will be tripling in size and launching in the spring.
Sustainability has been central to the regeneration programme which includes replacing a section of the roof using a 100% recyclable membrane and improved recycling systems, which have all contributed to lower consumption and reduced carbon emissions.
Further improvements are underway with the phased replacement of the Building Management System which will monitor and control all lights, heating and cooling systems more effectively to help reduce its carbon footprint. Delivery pallets have also been recycled to build planters and bug hotels.
In recognition of the significant transformation at The Centre, Livingston, the company, which is one of Europe’s leading property collectives, has been named a finalist in the Regeneration Project of the Year category at the 13th Scottish Property Awards, which takes place in Glasgow next month.
M Core has also been announced as the leading Investment Manager in Scotland in the Going Shopping 2026 report by Trevor Wood Associates, with The Centre, Livingston ranked the most attractive shopping centre in Scotland.
Simon Eatough, Director at LCP, part of M Core and Asset Manager to The Centre, Livingston said: “Our regeneration programme is well under way at The Centre, Livingston with even more exciting plans afoot.
“Being recognised for our efforts to revitalise the shopping centre is a great achievement for everyone who has been involved in the regeneration programme.
“Our work at The Centre, Livingston is grounded in long-term investment, active management and close collaboration with our partners and community.
“We’re very proud of the progress achieved so far and remain committed to ensuring The Centre, Livingston continues to thrive as a retail, dining and leisure destination for West Lothian and beyond.”
572 new energy-efficient homes brought to market in East Scotland, supporting almost 2,000 jobs across the region
Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, part of the UK’s leading housebuilder Barratt Redrow, have injected £131.9m in the Scottish economy for the year ending 29 June 2025 through its East Scotland Division, reinforcing their role as key contributors to economic growth, housing delivery and employment across the country.
The premium housebuilders operate across the north, east and west of the country. Through their East Scotland Division alone, a total of 572 new homes were brought to market, including 45 affordable homes.
Underlining their commitment to sustainability, 99% of all homes achieved an EPC rating of A or B. Every home was also built with access to renewable energy sources such as solar thermal panels, solar PV and air-source heat pumps.
With 90% of materials manufactured or assembled in the UK, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes directly and indirectly supported 1,887 jobs across its East Divisions, its sub-contractors and suppliers. They also generated an estimated £111.6 million in total spend with suppliers and sub-contractors.
The two businesses continue to create high quality communities in some of Scotland’s most scenic and popular locations, from West Craigs in Edinburgh to St Andrews in Fife.
Together, Barratt Homes East and David Wilson Homes East made £4.6m in local contributions, creating 207 new school places in communities and generating more than £22.4 million in tax revenues for reinvestment across the region.
Their approach to purposeful building focuses on creating long-term value through sustainable, inclusive communities. Affordable homes are sold at an average of 36% below equivalent private market prices, helping more people access high-quality, energy-efficient housing.
Environmental commitment remains central to delivery, with eight hectares of green space created through public open spaces and private gardens in East Scotland alongside the installation of 133 electric vehicle charging points. They also supported 18 graduates, apprentices and trainees through its various skills programmes.
Andrew Morrison, Managing Director, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East Scotland, said: “At Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes our purpose is to create strong communities where sustainable living is a reality for everyone. In 2025, we continued to deliver against this commitment, making a meaningful contribution to the Scottish economy, local communities and businesses.
“It is particularly encouraging to see the growth in skills and employment opportunities, and we remain firmly committed to investing in the future of our young people and our industry.
“Scotland continues to face a significant housing challenge. While we are proud of the difference we have made in delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes so far, we recognise that there is still much more to do to ensure everyone can access housing that meets the needs of modern living.
“Looking ahead, 2026 will be a landmark year for Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes as we begin construction on significant developments like Lingerwood in Midlothian. Across all our projects, our commitment to people, places and nature will remain at the heart of everything we do.”
Other key findings from Barratt Homes East and David Wilson Homes East Scotland 2025 socio-economic report include:
£111.6 million total spend with 326 sub-contractor companies and 294 supplier companies.
£15.1 million invested in physical works benefiting local communities, including highways, environmental improvements, affordable housing and community facilities.
£16.3 million annual spending in local shops and services by residents of new homes, supporting 157 retail and service-related jobs.
£62,000 in charitable donations made directly or via the Barratt Redrow Foundation and 1,058 hours of employee volunteering.
£74.6 million of land approved for future investment.
128 nature interventions installed, including integrated nesting bricks, bat boxes, and the creation of hedgehog highway routes.
The assessment was carried out by independent experts who analysed socio-economic impacts through the delivery chain for new housing based upon Barratt Redrow datasets, published research and national statistics.
As we step into 2026, many people will be thinking about the positive changes they’d like to make in the year ahead. For anyone looking to give back to their community, volunteering with the NSPCC is a meaningful way to support children and young people across Scotland.
One of the ways to support children is by becoming a Childline counsellor. Our Childline bases in Aberdeen and Glasgow are always looking for new volunteers to support children and young people through our phone and online services.
With a child contacting Childline every 45 seconds, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, volunteers play a vital role.
Another rewarding opportunity is with our Schools Service. Volunteers deliver our Speak out, Stay safe workshops in primary schools, helping children understand their right to be safe, recognise the signs of abuse, and know who they can turn to for support. Last year, the programme reached more than 60,000 across Scotland, and in 2026 we hope to reach even more.
Full training is provided, and visits can be arranged around work or family commitments. Every shift is different, and volunteers often tell us that the enthusiasm and curiosity of the children they meet is what makes the role so special.
If this sounds like something for you, visit the NSPCC website to find out more.
‘Tackle Maths’ a joint programme between Scottish Building Society and Edinburgh Rugby has now been delivered to over 1,000 children, helping to develop maths skills and get more pupils active.
Launched just over two years, the programme helps pupils aged between eight and 12 gain practical maths skills by using rugby and real-life examples to show how the subject factors into all elements of everyday life.
The milestone was reached as students from Broughton Primary School in Leith attended Hive Stadium to take part.
Seeing students apply maths outside of the classroom, from measuring the length of a rugby pitch, to working out the capacity of a stadium and estimating the height of the posts, the programme is designed to encourage pupils to think about maths lessons in a different way.
As well as gaining practical guidance, Tackle Maths sessions see students explore the world of rugby also, being treated to tours of Hive Stadium, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, the Scotland Team dressing room and the Scottish Rugby shop as part of the programme.
Paul Denton, chief executive, Scottish Building Society said: “When we started Tackle Maths our aim was to help at least 175 children get to grips with maths.
“Just over two years later it is incredible to have massively surpassed this, providing a thousand children across the country with a practical learning environment which shows why maths is important to their everyday lives.
“As a mutual organisation giving back to communities is incredibly important to us and this programme is a fantastic way of inspiring kids to think differently about learning.”
Douglas Struth, managing director, Edinburgh Rugby said: “Edinburgh Rugby is at its heart a community rugby club. That’s why working in partnership with Scottish Building Society to deliver this programme makes perfect sense.
“This programme is all about getting kids out of the classroom and learning in a practical manner. Having helped 1,000 children across the country to get excited about maths, we’re pleased to say it’s worked to great effect and look forward to supporting many more in the future.”
Melanie Bertram, a teacher from Broughton Primary said: “For many children, learning comes easier when they’re able to apply lessons in a real-life situation and a fun environment.
“Tackle Maths is perfect in this regard, giving them an experience which showcases how important maths is.
“A huge thank you to Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish Building Society for working with us to launch a brilliant and educational initiative.”
Expert advice from car insurance comparison specialists
UK motorists are being shown how simple adjustments could help them save hundreds on their car insurance in 2026.
Car insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk are urging drivers to consider what modifications they choose, how they word their job title, and to be realistic about the annual mileage covered each year.
Although car insurance prices have fallen in 2025, with the current average cost coming in at £591 as of Q3 2025, small changes to how and when people purchase their premiums could create further savings.
Recent data has revealed how slight changes in job title wording could impact insurance pricing, as providers can categorise job roles differently.
Another major consideration for drivers is the modifications they make to their car, with common modifications like window tints, tow bars, and even sunroofs having the potential to not only increase insurance premiums, but invalidate insurance altogether if they are undeclared.
A Quotezone survey earlier this year showed 65% of drivers didn’t realise adding a sunroof could be seen as a modification, meaning many drivers could be unknowingly risking higher insurance premiums or invalid cover.
Drivers have also been warned about how much their mileage can really affect their insurance premiums, with those clocking up the miles potentially paying hundreds more each year.
The timing of car insurance renewal remains a huge saving, with drivers potentially able to cut costs by up to 45% simply by renewing 15 to 24 days before their policy ends.
The later drivers leave it, the more expensive premiums are likely to be. A recent Quotezone survey showed two-thirds buy at the last minute when costs are potentially at their highest.
Research also shows that premiums purchased between midnight and 6am are 22% higher on average than those secured during the day.
Quotezone.co.uk CEO and car insurance expert Greg Wilson said: “This year has been really positive for many motorists as car insurance costs continued to decline quite significantly.
“This time last year we were looking at an average of £770 and now the average cost is coming in at just over £590. A decrease of £180 in the space of 12 months is welcome news for drivers who may be struggling with rising fuel and repair costs.
“But there are further savings to be had and a number of small changes could help put more money back into drivers’ pockets.
“While each individual’s circumstances are different and car insurance premiums are based on a series of risk factors such as age, location, and the cost of the vehicle – it is always worth ensuring drivers have the best possible price for their situation and reviewing these price sensitive questions and keeping these money saving tips in mind is key.
“It’s hard to predict what car insurance prices will do in 2026. While recent months have seen some easing in average premiums, there’s no guarantee this will continue, as inflation pressures, rising claims rates and the increasing cost of car repairs may make it challenging to keep prices lower for long. This makes it vital that drivers know how to get the most competitive price possible.”
Quotezone.co.uk’s top five car insurance saving hacks of 2025:
1.Choose your job title carefully
Insurers categorise job roles differently, meaning slight changes in job title wording can also impact insurance pricing. For example, someone describing themselves as a “Healthcare Assistant” might receive a different quote by selecting “Care Assistant” or “Care Worker” instead. As long as the title remains accurate, it could help reduce premiums.
2.Consider the car modifications you make
Car modifications can cause higher insurance premiums as they often increase the value of the vehicle and insurers may view them as an increased risk of theft. It’s also important to make sure any modifications are declared to the insurer or you run the risk of invalidating your policy.
3.Review how much annual mileage you’ll really cover
Driving habits and your circumstances can change over time, so it’s important to regularly review your policy and let your insurer know of any changes to ensure you are in the correct mileage band, especially if you’re driving much less miles than you initially covered yourself for. Motorists clocking up fewer than 1,000 miles a year pay an average of £520, while those who exceed 30,000 miles face average costs of £800.
4.Hit the insurance renewal sweet spot
Those who are organised and give themselves plenty of time to compare quotes from other insurers will likely get a better deal than those who leave it until the last minute. Quotezone data reveals that 15 to 24 days before the policy is due to start is the sweet spot, with drivers purchasing during this timeframe saving themselves an average of 33-45%.
5. Park somewhere safer
The closer you can park to the house, the safer your car is likely to be, reducing the risk of theft or damage, which could help reduce your insurance premiums. Those who park their car out on the road overnight could see average premiums of £1136, whereas the average for parking on a private driveway is 24% less at £868.
Quotezone helps over 4 million customers every year compare and find savings on all sorts of motoring products such as car, truck and van insurance.
Wondering when to call 111? Here’s what you need to know:
For minor illnesses like colds or sore throats, your local pharmacy is the best place for advice and treatment. Call 111 when you need urgent health advice but it’s not an emergency.
Know your options and get the right care, at the right time.
Wondering when to call 111? Here’s what you need to know: