Arthritis and other musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect 1.7 million people in Scotland – around one in three of us.
Yet despite the enormous impact these conditions have on people’s health, independence and ability to work, Scotland has no dedicated national strategy for MSK health. That needs to change.
Arthritis UK is calling on First Minister John Swinney to deliver Scotland’s first-ever MSK Action Plan, providing the national leadership needed to improve diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and support.
Behind the statistics are people living every day with pain, fatigue and disability – some waiting years for a diagnosis or treatment that could transform their lives.
Our “Don’t Turn Your Back on Arthritis” campaign gives those people, their families, and supporters the opportunity to make their voices heard.
We are urging people across Scotland to send a simple message to the First Minister: arthritis affects too many people to remain an afterthought.
It is time to face arthritis head-on and give MSK health the priority it deserves.
If you’re the parent or carer of a learner currently in S4-S6, we’d love to hear from you!
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Staff at Queens Manor Care Home in Barnton, Edinburgh are hosting a talk from Paul Whitman on the amazing charitable work they do at REMAP.
REMAP work on adapting equipment needed to meet the unique needs of individuals at no cost to them. The equipment, produced by our team of dedicated volunteers, can help with day-to-day tasks such as mobility, personal care or eating. Or it can enable the client to pursue a hobby or ambition, such as participating in a sport or art activity.
General Manager of the home, Margaret said: “We are very pleased to be welcoming Paul in to do a talk and answer and questions. They do such amazing work for the community”
Queens Manor care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals.
Queens Manor provides residential care and dementia care for 60 residents from respite care to long term stays. The home regularly holds events and activities for its residents, relatives and surrounding neighbours.
EDINBURGH-basedKids Operating Room co-founders Garreth and Nicola Wood MBE have taken part in Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s annual gorilla naming ceremony, naming a baby mountain gorilla Ngabonzima – meaning ‘The Protector’.
Kwita Izina – meaning “to give a name” in Kinyarwanda – is one of Rwanda’s most significant national honours, inspired by a centuries-old tradition of families and communities gathering to name their newborns.
Each year, a small number of people are invited to name a baby mountain gorilla in recognition of their contribution to conservation or to the country; past namers have included King Charles III, Idris Elba and Kevin Hart. This year, Garreth and Nicola were recognised for their work through both The Wood Foundation and Kids Operating Room.
Garreth and Nicola’s work in the country has had enormous impact – from The Wood Foundation’s support of over 35,000 smallholder tea farmers, to Kids Operating Room’s own work, which has been transforming children’s surgery across Rwanda since 2018, starting with one of its first theatres, installed in the capital, Kigali.
Since then, Kids Operating Room has installed four dedicated children’s operating theatres across the country, and trained 14 paediatric surgical scholars. By investing in both infrastructure and workforce, the work has created capacity for more than 30,000 life-changing operations for children – the economic benefit of which to the country is just under $1 billion – and will continue to benefit children in the country for decades to come.
“Garreth and Nicola Wood’s work in Rwanda has had an enormous impact on children living in Rwanda” said Dr. Edmond Ntaganda, consultant paediatric surgeon, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK).
“Through their passion for paediatric surgery, they’ve helped to transform our country’s entire health system for children.
“Their investment in both infrastructure and workforce has supported the development of a sustainable, locally-led system that guarantees better access to surgical care for Rwandan children for generations to come.”
Garreth Wood MBE, co-founder, Kids Operating Room, said: “To be invited to name a gorilla, alongside people who have dedicated their lives to conservation, is a genuine privilege.
“Kids Operating Room started because we believed every child deserves access to safe surgery, wherever they are born, and seeing what has been built in Rwanda since then is something I will always be proud of.
“This name echoes our belief that every child deserves access to safe, timely surgery, and how the availability of that care protects children from needless pain and suffering.”
Join Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt: Swap your £4 meal deal to help feed hungry children
Saturday Kitchen star Matt Tebbutt is encouraging people across Edinburgh to swap their £4 supermarket meal deal to help feed hungry children.
Matt, who is one of Britain’s most recognisable chefs, having also hosted Food Unwrapped and Drop Down Menu and been a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals, has teamed up with school feeding charity Mary’s Meals to promote its Meals Deals campaign.
Mary’s Meals, which started in a shed in the Scottish Highlands in 2002, provides a nutritious meal to more than three million children every school day. Working in some of the world’s poorest communities in 16 countries, including Haiti, Lebanon and Zimbabwe, the charity’s school meals bring hungry children into the classroom, where they can gain an education and look to a brighter future.
Thanks to Mary’s Meals’ low-cost approach, it costs only £19.15 to provide a child with meals in a place of education for a whole school year, just 10p a meal.
Matt is backing their Meals Deals campaign, which calls on people to swap out their £4 meal deal for a donation that will be transformed into nutritious food for 40 children at school.
The TV chef says: “We all have busy lives and it’s so easy to quickly grab a meal deal when we’re on the go – I’ll often seek out my favourite sandwich, crisps and a drink in between cooking and filming.
“But it’s incredible to think that by skipping just one meal deal and instead donating £4, you could help to transform the lives of 40 hungry children by providing them with food, education and hope.
“It’s easy to feel a bit helpless when we watch the news and see everything going on in the world. There’s so much sadness out there and you don’t know how to respond. But when I heard about the Meals Deals campaign and the simplicity of it, I loved it and had to get involved. They have a lovely line of ‘school + food = hope’, and I think that’s something we can all get behind.”
By swapping out a meal deal for a £4 donation to Mary’s Meals, you can help children like Samar.
The primary 8 student lives in South Sudan, where more than one third of all children under five years old suffer chronic malnutrition, and over 70% of primary school-age children are out of school – the highest figure anywhere in the world. Economic hardship is such that many families have to make the heartbreaking decision to send their children out to work rather than attending school.
Samar’s mother, Medina, is bringing up her daughter alone. To make money, she buys small quantities of flour to make cakes to sell; this is the family’s main source of income.
Samar explains: “When my mother has some money, we can have two meals a day. However, when there is not enough money, we may only have tea in the morning and then wait until evening to have a meal. When there is not enough food at home, I simply endure the situation.”
But thanks to Mary’s Meals, Samar can now rely on a nutritious daily meal at school. She says: “I feel happy to come to school every day because I know that I will receive a meal. Even when I do not have anything to eat at home, I know there will be food at school.”
Anna Houghton, Regional Development Officer for Mary’s Meals, says: “We’re all big Saturday Kitchen fans here at Mary’s Meals and so excited Matt has chosen to put our Meals Deals campaign in the spotlight.
“With one simple act, by saying no to a meal deal and donating just £4, you can help shape a brighter future for 40 children like Samar who face a daily battle for survival. Your spare pennies can make a tangible on-the-ground difference and be turned into happiness and hope through Mary’s Meals.”
Matt is encouraging the Scottish public to support the Meals Deals campaign today and says: “I love my trips to Scotland. It has incredible food, amazing produce, but most importantly, the most welcoming people.
“It’s no surprise that Mary’s Meals has achieved so much since its humble beginnings, fuelled by the renowned Scottish generosity and spirit.
“For me, food is always about bringing people together. And Mary’s Meals is doing that by showing that even the smallest of donations can connect people here in Scotland and hungry children across the world, by providing them with a nutritious meal and hope for a better tomorrow.”
A regular supermarket meal deal gives you a sandwich, snack and drink. But Meals Deals offers so much more. Could you help to transform a child’s life by swapping a meal deal for a £4 donation to Mary’s Meals?
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is offering free entry for Edinburgh children throughout September, helping local families enjoy a day out in the capital for less.
The offer is available as part of Forever Edinburgh’s Resident Rewards programme, which gives EH postcode holders access to exclusive offers across the city.
From Sunday to Friday, EH postcode holders can receive one free child ticket with each full-paying adult ticket booked online using the code EHREWARD26.
Edinburgh residents visiting without children can also benefit from its ongoing 20% off off-peak tickets from Sunday to Friday. The discount is available online using the code RESIDENTRATE20.
The offers follow Camera Obscura’s participation in the Government’s Great British Summer Savings Initiative, which saw the attraction pass on the full VAT reduction across advance and walk-up tickets during the peak summer season.
Located at the top of the Royal Mile, Camera Obscura features more than 100 interactive exhibits across five floors, from optical illusions and mind-bending installations to panoramic views of Edinburgh from its rooftop.
The attraction also welcomes families of all needs. Visitors with sensory needs can borrow Sensory Backpacks containing ear defenders, sunglasses, a torch, an activity sheet and sensory toys. A sensory map of the building is also available to help families plan their visit.
Andrew Johnson, General Manager of Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, said:“September is a brilliant time for Edinburgh residents to rediscover what is on their doorstep, once the busiest weeks of the summer have passed.
“We know the cost of a family day out can quickly add up, so we hope our child-goes-free offer will make it easier for local families to visit. We also wanted to ensure residents visiting without children could benefit, with 20% off off-peak tickets available throughout the month.”
Council Leader Jane Meagher said:“Our Resident Rewards programme, delivered by Forever Edinburgh, is all about giving the people who live in Edinburgh more opportunities to discover, enjoy and experience their own city for less.
“Camera Obscura is one of the capital’s most loved attractions, and I hope that residents will be able to make the most of this offer.”
Both offers are available to EH postcode holders from Sunday to Friday throughout September and must be booked online. Only one discount can be used per booking.
Strictly Legends Pasha Kovalev and Kristina Rihanoff added a touch of sparkle to the Strictly for Hope Gala Ball at Prestonfield House, to raise vital funds for the House of Hope, Scotland’s first bespoke wellbeing centre for people impacted by breast cancer and their families.
The glittering Strictly themed gala ball was The House of Hope’s biggest fundraising event of the year, to raise money to ensure those impacted by breast cancer can continue accessing fully funded support services, holistic treatments, exercise classes and wellbeing sessions.
Bringing together House of Hope supporters and the business community for an evening of entertainment and empowerment, the event was supported by headline sponsor RevitaLash Cosmetics, silver sponsor PW & Partners and bronze sponsor Hunter Garden Services.
Hazel McLinden, House of Hope Centre Manager said: “The money we have raised will go directly towards enhancing and maintaining the wellbeing services we offer.
“The Gala Ball wouldn’t have been possible without the ongoing support and commitment from our sponsors, plus our team of generous fundraisers and volunteers, who are all instrumental in the success of the House of Hope and we are incredibly grateful to them all.”
Recently celebrating its first anniversary, the Edinburgh-based charity has gone from strength-to-strength.
Lori Jacobus, President and Global CMO of RevitaLash Cosmetics said: “We are thrilled to support the House of Hope as headline sponsor, as it’s a charity that aligns closely with our ethos and values.
“Our story began twenty years ago with one product: the original lash conditioner, created by our Founder, Michael Brinkenhoff, M.D., to help his beloved wife feel beautiful during her brave battle with metastatic breast cancer. Today our physician-led line of cosmetics enhances the health and natural beauty of lashes, brows, and hair while giving back to the cause that started it all – every day of the year.
“Partnering with The House of Hope holds special significance for us as they’re our very first pink-partner to come on board since moving our UK operations in-house earlier this year. It’s an exciting time, and we’re looking forward to working with The House of Hope to create a long and impactful partnership in the Scottish market.”
Compered by broadcast stars Grant Stott and Laura Boyd, with Alan Wake star of Manogram – a man with breast cancer, delivering the keynote speech, the evening included showcase dance performances from Strictly stars Pasha Kovalev and Kristina Rihanoff, along with dazzling routines from amateur dancers – Andy, Emma, Denis and Mary – some of whom had never danced before, to raise money for the House of Hope.
The evening was topped off with a fantastic live music set from popular Scottish duo BLEEKER, who regularly perform for charitable causes.
The Strictly for Hope Gala Ball celebrated the efforts and achievements of the charity to date and paves the way for future fundraising events.
For further information about the wellbeing services and supporting The House of Hope visit houseofhope.org.uk.
Businesses and entrepreneurs are being invited to develop technology solutions to some of Scotland’s most pressing public service challenges.
Scotland’s world-leading public sector innovation programme, CivTech, launches its 12th round today with six new challenges, supported by £5.7 million investment.
Improving patient transport for those receiving vital NHS treatment, strengthening child protection through better information sharing, and preventing fuel poverty are among the issues being tackled in the latest round of the programme.
As well as driving public service reform, CivTech helps innovative Scottish companies develop new products, secure commercial opportunities and create high-value jobs. To date, CivTech has driven the delivery of more than 100 highly innovative products and services to benefit the people of Scotland, including the ePass licensing system, the Forestry and Land Scotland Tape4Trees system and Scotland’s digital mailbox.
Minister for Public Services Reform Ivan McKee said: “CivTech has an international reputation for demonstrating how public sector reform and economic growth can go hand in hand. Through the programme, we are harnessing innovation to help our public services become more efficient and responsive to people’s needs.
“The six challenges address issues that matter deeply to communities, from tackling substance use or improving patient transport to preventing fuel poverty and strengthening child protection.
“The programme continues to deliver impressive results, with more than 80% of CivTech Accelerator companies securing follow-on contracts.
“Private sector investment into CivTech alumni has also grown substantially, rising from approximately £4 million in March 2020 to more than £140 million today.
“CivTech is a strong example of how we are delivering reform while supporting Scotland’s economy and public services to thrive.”
Companies can find out more information about how to apply on the CivTech website. Applications are open until 12:00 noon Tuesday 20th October 2026.
The six Challenges in Round 12 are:
Challenge 12.1: Supporting people affected by substance use to connect with trusted help and support when services are unavailable.
Challenge 12.2: Developing scalable service management solutions for fast-growing digital public services.
Challenge 12.3: Demonstrating the commercial value of circular economy business practices through technology.
Challenge 12.4: Improving efficiency and patient experience in NHS transport services, initially focused on renal care.
Challenge 12.5: Supporting multi-agency processes for the protection of children in Scotland through improved information sharing and decision-making.
Challenge 12.6: Helping social housing providers proactively prevent the impacts of fuel poverty on residents.
The Round 12 Challenge Sponsors are:
Challenge 12.1: Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre, Simon Community Scotland and WithYou.
Challenge 12.2: Scottish Government Directorate for Digital.
Challenge 12.3: Zero Waste Scotland.
Challenge 12.4: Scottish Government Directorate for Health and Social Care Finance, Scottish Ambulance Service and NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde.
Challenge 12.5: Scottish Government Child Protection Unit, Police Scotland and National Social Work Agency .
***Credit should read Sandy Young/scottishphotographer.com***
Watsonian Football Club has announced the introduction of Hastings 13 Lager into the Myreside pavilion in partnership with longstanding sponsor and Scottish brewery Harviestoun Brewery in honour of the life and legacy of club icon Scott Hastings.
The partnership embeds Harviestoun into the fabric of matchday culture at Myreside while paying homage to Scott, a monumental figure in Scottish rugby who passed away earlier this year having served Watsonians, Scotland and the British & Irish Lions with distinction.
Harviestoun introduced Hastings 13 lager at the recent celebration of Scott’s life, in collaboration with pavilion operator Heart of Midlothian, and now the brewery and club have introduced the lager at Myreside as part of a sponsorship deal to support Watsonian FC’s growth.
The official launch took place at Myreside before the opening home fixtures of the season, on Saturday September 5, when both the men’s and women’s 1st XVs were in action.
John McLellan, President of Watsonian Football Club, said, “Scott Hastings represented the very best of what it means to be a Watsonian and as a hugely influential character who was the life and soul of any party I’m sure he would have loved the idea of raising a glass of his own beer to the club’s future.
“Harviestoun is one of our longest-serving and most important sponsors, and the club is privileged to work with them to embed the brewery into Myreside history. Having the Hastings 13 tap permanently on the bar gives our members, players, and supporters a meaningful way to celebrate Scott’s memory and spirit every single matchday.”
Scott’s brother, former Watsonians, Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings said, “Our family’s connection to Myreside runs incredibly deep and as a tireless champion of the club both on and off the field, I’m sure he would be very proud that our name will continue to be associated with celebration at Myreside, but also the future welfare of the club.
“When Harviestoun stepped up to work with Heart of Midlothian and created the Hastings 13 lager for Scott’s celebration of life, it meant a great deal to our family. Bringing this tribute permanently into the clubhouse alongside Harviestoun’s wider support is a wonderful way to connect our family, the club, and Scott’s legacy.”
Andrew McKnight of Harviestoun Brewery, commented, “It’s a real privilege to continue partnering with Watsonian FC and work alongside the Hastings family. Crafting the Hastings 13 beer to commemorate Scott was a deeply meaningful project for our team.
“We are proud to recognise the club’s past, whilst supporting the club’s future across both the men’s and women’s games, while honouring one of Scottish rugby’s true greats.”
PICTURED (top):Corey Hastings, Gavin Hastings, and Kerry-Anne Hastings
Local charity LifeCare is inviting parents, grandparents and carers to join a free, practical paediatric first aid session at its Stockbridge hub this Friday (11th September).
The session will cover basic first aid for infants, including how to deliver CPR and what to do in the event of choking. It is designed to give people who care for young children the confidence and practical knowledge to respond calmly in an emergency.
Taking place from 3pm to 5pm at CafeLife, LifeCare, 2 Cheyne Street, Stockbridge, EH4 1JB, the informal session is open to anyone who looks after children and would like to learn some essential first aid skills.
There is no need to book, and the session is completely free to attend. Tea and coffee will also be available, with donations welcome to support LifeCare’s work.
Set up in September 1941, the charity is celebrating its 85th anniversary of delivering transformative support within our local communities this month.
Sarah Duckmanton, Activities Coordinator at LifeCare said: “We want to make it as easy as possible for families and carers to access useful, practical information in a friendly and welcoming setting. Knowing what to do in an emergency can make a real difference, and this session is sure to be a great opportunity to learn some important skills.
“This event forms part of our free Talks at LifeCare programme, where we have covered everything from Edinburgh Street Style to the Water of Leith. Everyone is welcome. Thanks to everyone at the National Lottery Community Fund Scotland for helping make these free talks possible!”
CafeLife is fully accessible with lots of space for buggies, prams and wheelchairs. If you’re interested in getting involved or would like to learn more, please get in touch sarahduckmanton@lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk.
Event details
What: Paediatric First Aid – including choking and CPR When: Friday 11 September, 3pm–5pm Where: CafeLife, The LifeCare Hub, 2 Cheyne Street, Stockbridge, EH4 1JB Free but donations are always welcome
Sign up here 
