Supporting families at risk of poverty and improving outcomes for children are at the heart of a funding package totalling more than £7.5 million.
The Scottish Government investment spans three key programmes, each designed to address the root causes of child poverty and give families the tools they need to thrive.
The funding for 2026-27 is:
£2.2 million for the Whole Family Support through General Practice (WFSGP), doubling its reach to more families across the most deprived parts of Glasgow. The programme supports families to increase wellbeing, and build financial resilience
£4.2 million to strengthen NHS Scotland’s employability opportunities and deliver 200 placements for job seeking parents, helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to enter or return to the workforce
an additional £1.1 million for the Family Nurse Partnership, enabling the programme to reach up to 500 additional parents. It supports young first-time parents often facing challenging circumstances to connect with community resources and to improve their financial situations.
We are committed to eradicating child poverty in Scotland.
Our new Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan builds on progress and sets out a broad range of actions to help parents.
The package forms part of the Scottish Government’s new Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan 2026-31 which aims to support parents to increase their incomes and reduce the burden of everyday costs, on top of existing work, helping to keep an estimated 100,000 children out of relative poverty in 2026-27.
This builds on existing Scottish Government action which has already reduced relative child poverty rates in Scotland to the lowest levels in almost a decade – with rates nine percentage points lower than the UK in 2023-24.
We want to ensure that no child in Scotland grows up in poverty.
Watch First Minister @JohnSwinney as he explains what we are doing to eradicate child poverty and provide whole family support. pic.twitter.com/F7zeJGhl8g
Announcing the investment at Peat Road Medical Practice, in Glasgow, Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “Tackling child poverty is the Scottish Government’s top priority and we want every child to have the best possible start in life.
“That’s why this package of funding is so important. It will enhance and expand three highly impactful programmes which will help families access support, fair work in the NHS, and reduce child poverty.
“This support will allow these three invaluable projects to continue to grow and help even more families across Scotland.”
Dr Elizabeth Bryden, GP at Peat Road Medical Centre, said: “We are delighted that the Scottish Government has extended funding for Whole Family Support through General Practice into 2026/27.
“The project helps to reduce inequalities linked to deprivation and enables children and families to reach their potential.
“Being involved in the Whole Family Support programme has made a significant difference to the families in our practice. Our Family Wellbeing Worker has used their knowledge and experience to connect families with community resources and patients place a great deal of trust in them.”
Libraries across Edinburgh are celebrating after being recognised at the prestigious Library of the Year Award at The British Book Awards 2026.
The collaborative work of Oxgangs Library, Saughton Library at HMP Edinburgh and the Mobile Library Service have been named Scotland Regional and Country Winner for Library of the Year.
Their Secret Santa Project saw individuals in custody receive specially selected library books, gift-wrapping them so recipients would have something meaningful to open on Christmas Day.
The partnership will now go forward for the overall Library of the Year Award, with the final winner to be announced at The British Book Awards 2026.
Alongside the regional win, other Edinburgh libraries were also recognised as finalists in the Scotland category.
Kirkliston and South Queensferry Library were recognised for their role supporting children and young people through transition between primary school and high school by working with local schools to promote literacy, encourage reading for pleasure and expand educational opportunities for children and young people in the local areas.
Meanwhile, Craigmillar Librarywas shortlisted for their work with young people to create a teenage book group, where the young people have not only developed a love of reading, they have also learned new skills in areas such as creative writing and research.
Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said: “I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve been recognised as a Regional and Country winner for Library of the Year. This achievement is testament to the dedication and creativity of the teams at Oxgangs, Saughton Library at HMP Edinburgh and our Mobile Libraries service, whose hard work has made this possible.
“They delivered a thoughtful Secret Santa initiative that provided gift-wrapped books for people in custody at what can be a particularly lonely time of year. The project not only helped boost participation with the library but brought comfort to so many.
“My congratulations also go to the teams at Craigmillar and Kirkliston and South Queensferry Libraries who were recognised as finalists.
I’m so proud that we have such a fantastic library service across the whole city.”
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is continuing to investigate an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent with 13 cases notified since 13 March. Sadly, this includes 2 people who are known to have died.
Investigations have confirmed some of the cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 to 7 March prior to becoming unwell. UKHSA’s health protection team is working closely with the nightclub and partners including the University of Kent to limit the spread.
UKHSA is now advising anyone who visited Club Chemistry on 5 March, 6 March or 7 March to come forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precautionary measure. This can be collected from the following sites:
Senate Building at University of Kent, CT2 7NZ – open until 8pm on Monday 16 March (queue closes 7.15pm) and from 9am to 8pm on Tuesday 17 March.
Gate Clinic, Kent and Canterbury Hospital, Ethelbert Road, Canterbury, CT1 3NG – open until 8pm on Monday 16 March and planned to open from 8.30am to 7.30pm on Tuesday 17 March.
Westgate Hall, Westgate Hall Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2BT. Planned to be open from 8.30am to 7.30pm on Tuesday 17 March.
Carey Building, Thanet Hub, Margate Northwood Rd, Westwood, Broadstairs, CT10 2WA. Planned to be open from 8.30am to 7.30 pm on Tuesday 17 March.
Advice has been issued to 16,000 staff and students at the University of Kent, where antibiotics are also being offered to those who need them.
Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly. Signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting, and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass.
Early symptoms can often be confused with other illnesses such as a cold, flu or hangover, and students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs. If you or anyone you know develops any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately by contacting a GP, calling NHS 111 or dialling 999 in an emergency. Knowing the signs and taking early treatment can be lifesaving.
Trish Mannes, UKHSA Regional Deputy Director for the South East, said: Our thoughts remain with the friends and family involved and we understand that many people in the university and wider community will be affected by this sad news.
“Our investigations have identified that some cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury and it is important that anyone who visited the club between 5 and 7 March now comes forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precaution, as well as those offered antibiotics at the university – these students are being contacted directly through the university.
“If you think you may have symptoms of meningitis, do not hesitate to seek medical help by contacting your GP or calling NHS 111.”
Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. Very occasionally, the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can rapidly lead to sepsis.
The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital.
Early symptoms, which may not always be present, include:
a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
sudden onset of high fever
severe and worsening headache
stiff neck
vomiting and diarrhoea
joint and muscle pain
dislike of bright lights
very cold hands and feet
seizures
confusion/delirium
extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking
Young people going on to university or college for the first time are particularly at risk of meningitis because they newly mix with so many other students, some of whom are unknowingly carrying the bacteria at the back of their nose and throat.
There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY. It is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningococcal infection.
Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia as early detection and treatment can save lives.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the deaths following the reported outbreak of meningitis in Kent. Our heartfelt thoughts are with their families, friends and the surrounding communities at this incredibly difficult time.
We urge students, staff and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis, which can include a high fever, severe headache, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, cold hands and feet, limb pain, and, in some cases, a rash that does not fade under pressure.
Symptoms can appear suddenly and be easily mistaken for flu, a heavy cold or even a hangover, so it is vital that anyone who is concerned seeks urgent medical help immediately.
At Meningitis Now, we are here for anyone who needs information, guidance or someone to talk to during what can be a frightening and uncertain time.
You can find more information from https://bit.ly/4rAHm1x or by calling our nurse-led Helpline on 0808 80 10 388, open Monday to Friday.
Dr Tom Nutt, Chief Executive of Meningitis Now says:“We are deeply saddened to hear of the deaths of two young people following the reported outbreak of meningitis linked to the University of Kent and schools local to Canterbury. Our heartfelt thoughts are with their families, friends and the entire community at this incredibly difficult time.
“Meningitis can progress very quickly and its impact is devastating, particularly for young people and their loved ones. University students and young adults are among the groups at increased risk because they are more likely to carry the bacteria that can cause meningitis, and because bacteria can spread more easily in settings where students and young people live, study and socialise closely together.
“We urge students, young people, staff and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis, which can include a high fever, severe headache, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, cold hands and feet, limb pain, and, in some cases, a rash that does not fade under pressure.
“Symptoms can appear suddenly and can easily be mistaken for flu, a heavy cold or even the after-effects of a night out, so it is vital that anyone who is concerned seeks urgent medical help immediately.
We welcome the swift response from the UK Health Security Agency to identify close contacts and provide precautionary antibiotics where needed. Rapid public health action is crucial in helping to reduce the risk of further cases. We are offering our support and resources to the university, schools and wider community to help in any way we can.
“At Meningitis Now we are here to support anyone affected by meningitis, whether they are directly affected themselves, supporting a loved one, or dealing with the aftermath of the disease. Our support services are available to anyone who needs information, guidance or someone to talk to during what can be a frightening and uncertain time. You can find our more information from www.meningitisnow.org or by calling our nurse-led Helpline on 0808 80 10 388, open Monday to Friday.
“Meningitis can affect anyone, but it is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults. Vaccination is the only way of preventing certain types of meningitis, and many students will have had the MenACWY vaccination at school. However, it is important for teenagers and young adults to be aware that they are unlikely to have been vaccinated against one of the most common causes of meningitis in this age group, which is MenB. We encourage everyone to check that they and their families are up to date with the vaccines available to them and to be aware of the signs and symptoms too.
“This tragic situation is a stark reminder of why our “No Plan B for MenB” campaign is calling for greater protection against meningococcal group B, or MenB, disease. MenB is one of the most common causes of bacterial meningitis in the UK and can strike suddenly with life-changing consequences.
“Since 2015 only infants have been vaccinated against MenB and we believe all teenagers and young adults should be protected by this vaccine on the NHS. Currently the vaccine is only available privately through high-street and supermarket pharmacies.
“If anyone is worried about symptoms, trust your instincts and seek urgent medical help. Acting quickly can save lives.”
Specsavers is launching its first ever graduate development programme for recently qualified audiologists and hearing aid dispensers.
Applications are now open for the Specsavers Audiology Graduate Programme, a brand-new opportunity open to qualified audiologists with HCPC registration or those on track to qualify and be registered by September 2026. Applications are welcomed from local final year students and graduates of Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh.
Specsavers is currently the only major UK audiology employer offering a clearly defined, national, structured audiology graduate programme offering a guaranteed salary alongside structured clinical, leadership, and business development. Graduates will also benefit from ongoing support from experienced partners and central support teams and clear progression routes into permanent roles and/or business ownership.
Successful applicants will be based within a Specsavers hearing care practice – which can be either in a store or with a home visits service – for 18-months where they will complete a training programme to providing strong foundations for early career audiologists. Graduates will be able to build and develop clinical, leadership and business skills – learning how to drive clinical excellence and deliver exceptional patient care and customer experience.
Laura Monaghan, Head of Careers for Specsavers Hearing Care, said: :‘Our first audiology graduate programme provides an excellent springboard into a fulfilling and rewarding clinical career.
“We’re looking for people who care about doing the right thing for patients, enjoy keeping quality and service standards high and are wanting to combine their clinical skills with experience in leadership and business operations.
“We’ll give successful applicants structured early-career support, with help from our expert office teams and store partners, so they have everything they need to succeed.
‘Specsavers is a family business, and each practice is owned and run by its clinical and retail directors. We have been certified as a Great Place to Work for the last three years in the UK and Ireland and are ranked number 12 in 2025’s World’s Best Workplaces™.
‘Unlike many graduate opportunities, this is not just a job vacancy, but a nationally-supported graduate pathway with consistent training and a variety of avenues for progression. If you are a passionate, ambitious, and hard-working Audiologist or Hearing Aid Dispenser that is ready to learn how to lead and grow in audiology, we’re waiting to hear from you and look forward to giving your audiology career an excellent launch pad.’
Alongside having HCPC registration as an Audiologist or Hearing Aid Dispenser – or currently studying for an audiology degree and due to qualify and register by September 2026 – applicants will also need a full UK driving licence and the right to work in the UK.
When we think about heart health, we often focus on cardio exercises like walking, running, or cycling. But did you know that your bottom, AKA the glutes, can play a surprisingly important role in keeping your heart healthy?
Your glutes are the largest and most powerful muscle group in the body. They are essential for everyday movement, posture, and balance. When they are strong, being active feels easier and is sustainable, which supports long-term heart health.
In this month’s Healthy Tip, Luca van Cleemput, Healthy Heart Coach at Heart Research UK, explains why strengthening your glutes is about much more than aesthetics, and discusses how it can help protect your heart.
Why do glutes matter for heart health?
Strong glutes power everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, standing up from a chair, or carrying shopping. When these muscles are weak, other parts of the body, like the lower back or knees, often compensate. Over time, this can lead to discomfort and reduce daily movement.
Regular activity is one of the most effective ways to protect your heart. Research shows that even small increases in daily movement, like walking more, are linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Strong glutes make movement feel easier, which helps you stay active consistently.
Luca explains: “Cardio is essential for heart health, but muscle strength is often overlooked. Strong muscles support heart health, bones, balance, independence, and long-term quality of life.
“For best results, include regular cardio along with at least two strength-training sessions per week. Since the glutes are the body’s largest muscle group and support everyday movement, they’re a great place to start.”
Glutes, energy, and metabolism
Because the glutes are such a large muscle group, strengthening them has benefits beyond movement alone. When muscles work, they generally use glucose for energy. Therefore, doing strength training regularly helps improve blood sugar control and supports insulin sensitivity, which is important for overall health and specifically heart health.
Luca adds: “People often think strength training has to be time-consuming. In reality, even simple glute exercises done regularly can help your body manage blood sugar and support heart health over time.”
Maintaining muscle mass as we age is also important for supporting a healthy metabolism. From mid-life onwards, we naturally begin to lose muscle, a process called sarcopenia. Because muscle burns more energy than fat, even at rest, losing muscle gradually lowers the body’s resting metabolic rate. This means we burn slightly fewer calories over time at rest, which can make gradual weight gain more likely, even if eating habits remain the same.
Luca explains: “Even simple glute exercises done consistently can support your metabolism and help you burn more calories at rest. Strong glutes aren’t just about aesthetics, they support your heart, weight management, and independence as you age.”
Carrying excess weight, particularly around the waist, is linked with higher blood pressure, cholesterol, and an increased risk of heart disease.
Keeping large muscle groups like the glutes strong helps preserve overall muscle mass. This supports weight stability, a higher resting metabolic rate, and better long-term metabolic health.
While glutes are the largest muscles, strengthening other major muscle groups, including the legs, core, and back, complements glute strength. Building overall muscle mass supports everyday fitness, makes daily movement easier, and reduces the strain on joints.
Stronger glutes make exercise feel easier
When your glutes are doing their job properly, activities like walking, cycling, or climbing stairs require less effort from smaller muscles. This reduces fatigue and improves movement efficiency.
Lower-body strength also helps your body cope better with aerobic exercise. Strong muscles make everyday activities feel easier and more manageable, even at the same pace or intensity. This makes it easier to maintain moderate-intensity activity, the level most strongly linked with improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall cardiovascular fitness.
In simple terms, when movement feels easier, you are more likely to do it regularly. And when it comes to heart health, consistency matters more than intensity.
Strength training works best alongside regular aerobic activity such as walking, cycling, or swimming. Together, they provide the strongest protection for heart health.
Posture, balance, and injury prevention
Weak glutes can contribute to poor posture, such as slouching or excessive arching of the lower back. Over time, this may make daily activities feel more tiring.
Strong glutes play a key role in balance and stability. They help control movement at the hips, which is essential for staying steady when walking, turning, stepping up or down, or getting out of a chair.
As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass and strength if it isn’t regularly challenged. Reduced lower-body strength increases the risk of falls, a major cause of injury and loss of independence in older adults. Even short periods of inactivity following an injury can negatively affect heart health, as people often move less and lose confidence in their ability to stay active.
Luca adds: “Glutes play a surprisingly big role in preventing falls. Keeping them strong stabilises your hips, which can help you move safely and more confidently every day, especially as you age.”
Maintaining glute strength improves balance, reduces the risk of falls, and supports long-term independence. Even small improvements can make a meaningful difference.
Simple ways to strengthen your glutes
You don’t need a gym or heavy weights to start strengthening your glutes. Simple exercises at home can be adapted to suit different abilities.
The UK physical activity guidelines recommend muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week. These sessions do not need to be long and can use bodyweight alone.
Examples of glute-strengthening exercises:
Sit-to-stands from a chair
Glute bridges
Step-ups
Glute kickbacks
Romanian deadlift
As your strength improves, exercises may feel easier. Gradually increasing repetitions, adding an extra set, or introducing light resistance (from a resistance band or dumbbells) helps maintain progress. Small, steady increases are safer and more effective than sudden large jumps in intensity.
A good rule of thumb is that the last few repetitions of an exercise should feel challenging, but you should still maintain good form and breathe steadily.
Luca explains: “Strength training should feel challenging, but not overwhelming. Start at a level that suits you and build up gradually.
“Choose exercises you can perform without pain and focus on perfecting your technique before increasing intensity. This is the best way to get all the benefits of a specific exercise.”
Remember, the goal isn’t necessarily large muscles. It’s to maintain strength, support everyday movement, and protect long-term heart health.
Bringing it all together
Strong glutes are more than just an aesthetic goal. They:
Make everyday movement easier
Support heart health and blood sugar control
Helpmaintainweight and metabolism
Reduce the risk of falls and injury
Contribute to overall muscle strength, functional fitness, and independence
Incorporating glute exercises into a total-body strength routine provides maximum benefits for your health, both now and in the long term.
Download Heart Research UK’s Free Resource
To help you get started, we’ve created a ‘Glute Strength for Everyday Movement’ exercise sheet. It includes simple, step-by-step exercises to support mobility, balance, and heart-healthy movement, with options for different ability levels.
These exercises focus on movements that strengthen not just the glutes, but other important lower-body muscles too, helping you build functional strength that supports everyday life.
Download the free resource and take the first step towards stronger glutes and a healthier heart:
A group of Scots who have all been diagnosed with cancer will take to the catwalk later this month to model some of the latest fashions in the closing show of this year’s Edinburgh STYLE event.
The Catwalk for Cancer Research, organised by local charity Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh on behalf of Cancer Research UK (CRUK), will take place at 7pm on Saturday 28th March in the city’s St James Quarter.
The fund-raising show, billed as an opportunity to ‘Look Good and Do Good,’ will feature 20 individuals who have all experienced their own journey with cancer showcasing a broad range of curated pre-loved fashion items supplied by CRUK.
Glaswegian Danielle Quinn, 41, a finance manager and founder of a social media content creation business, is among those taking part. Danielle is living with a rare form of ovarian cancer.
Just days before Christmas 2023, she was admitted to hospital where doctors drained six litres of fluid from her abdomen. She later underwent major surgery which turned into a complex seven-hour procedure, during which surgeons removed ten organs after discovering cancer had spread across her abdomen.
Danielle was diagnosed with stage three low-grade serous carcinoma, a rare form of ovarian cancer that often affects younger women. Following her diagnosis, she initially opted for hormone therapy rather than chemotherapy in order to manage the disease while maintaining her quality of life. However, the cancer returned in October 2024.
Despite ongoing treatment and the challenges of surgical menopause and long-term cancer care, Danielle remains determined to use her experience to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and the realities of living with the disease.
She said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be involved in this event where I’ll be modelling some incredible fashions while also sharing my own cancer journey. Cancer is something we still don’t talk about openly enough, and I’m determined to do what I can to help raise awareness and encourage more conversations about symptoms, diagnosis and support.”
Others taking part in the Catwalk for Cancer Research event include Motherwell-born operatic soprano, Monica McGhee who will model and sing at the event. The 37-year-old, who has performed in some of the most prestigious opera houses in the UK and across the world, survived a 2017 diagnosis of thyroid cancer with her career now back on track after two years of treatment in London.
Among those joining her on the catwalk later this month are Gwen Shaw, a 50-year-old tour guide who has lived through Stage 2 breast cancer, for which she was diagnosed in 2022, and businesswoman Jacqui Gale, who sits on the board of Scottish Enterprise. Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2020, Jacqui underwent a stem cell transplant in 2021 and is now committed to helping others with cancer.
Jacqui, who is also a board member of Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh, says: “Life is precious. I want to do everything I can to keep loved ones together for longer, help people reach milestone birthdays and bring forward the day when all cancers can be beaten.”
All participants of the Catwalk for Cancer Research show will be supported by Ian Tod, an Edinburgh-based fashion stylist who has developed a solid reputation in the creative industry across the UK.
The event will be compered by Kylie Reid, the founder of egg, one of the UK’s largest platforms for women in business. The evening will also feature a charity supermarket shop with pre-loved clothes as well as clothing donation stations, live entertainment and a fashion photography exhibition and art gallery.
Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh has raised nearly £800,000 since its inception in 2019. The locally-focused charity, which also holds an annual fund-raising dinner and sponsored walk of the city’s Seven Hills, is now on target to surpass £1m in the year ahead.
Tickets for Catwalk for Cancer Research are now on sale with all the event’s proceeds going towards funding vital life-saving research in the city.
The show is part of this year’s Edinburgh STYLE event, running from 25th to 29th March, bringing together fashion, beauty and culture in the heart of the capital. The programme features a wide array of runway shows, trend-led talks, live music and in-store experiences.
GRASSMARKET COMMUNITY PROJECT ANNOUNCED AS THE NEW CHARITYPARTNER AT NETWORKING CLUB, ‘LOVE YOUR BUSINESS’
Grassmarket Community Project has been announced as the latest annual Charity Partner at business networking club, Love Your Business, which has attracted over 4500 attendees and 220 guest speakers since it started in 2018, including the Californian eco-entrepreneur Paul Tasner from PulpWorks.
Love Your Business, which runs monthly at Black Ivy Hotel in Bruntsfield, was founded by Michelle Brown from the eponymous PR agency which she started in 2014. The aim, which continues today, is to help start up and growth businesses to share skills, contacts, referrals and support each other.
Speakers who have shared their entrepreneurial and personal journeys over the years, include Chris van der Kuyl, the chairman and co-founder of the video game company 4J Studios, Social Bite co-founder and motivational coach, Alice Thompson, and former Scotland international rugby player, Scott Hastings.
This month’s speaker on Thursday 26th March is Laura Thomas, the founder of the luxury lifestyle brand, Laura Thomas Co., who will be sharing her inspiring journey around setting up the business 12 years ago and opening her store in North Berwick four years ago. Her products are 100% natural and chemical-free and the packaging comes from recycled coffee cups and clients include Balmoral Estate, Old Course Hotel in St Andrews and Ballintaggart Hotel.
Over the past seven years the networking club has also supported a different charity each year with a percentage of ticket sales and marketing support.
This year’s partnership with Grassmarket Community Project will help to raise even more awareness of the much-needed emotional and practical support they provide for vulnerable people in the city to help enhance their life skills, develop confidence, increase their resilience and encourage self-reliance and independence.
The charity, which was founded 23 years ago and has 33 staff and 116 volunteers, offers everything from a befriending service and employability and training guidance to 25 free weekly activities like woodwork, gardening, meditation and literacy classes and runs a community cinema.
They also have a Coffee Saints café onsite in the Grassmarket and behind St James Quarter, a Tartan Shop with their very own tartan, and hire out event space for corporate events and weddings.
Helene van der Ploeg, Chief Executive Officer at Grassmarket Community Project, said: “We are honoured to have been chosen by Michelle to be her Charity Partner this year.
“As a charity incorporating social enterprises, we really value this partnership, which will help build vital networks among businesses and increase our profile through Michelle’s extensive marketing knowledge and skills.
“This will make such a difference in helping Grassmarket Community Project have a powerful voice for the thousands of people in our city, struggling with complex challenges and living in poverty, barely able to afford the essentials of life.”
Michelle said: “When I first learnt about the Grassmarket Community Project, providing emotional and practical support and services for people in the city who are struggling, I knew immediately I wanted to partner with them to help raise even more awareness of the great work they are doing.
“I’m really looking forward to working with Helene and the team to ensure more people know about the support they can get and locals and visitors to the city know about their tartan shop, café, venue hire and cinema screenings to help keep the charity going in the long term.
“Thanks to everyone who has bought a ticket for Love Your Business over the years and helped to support every Charity Partner.
“There are still tickets left for the networking event on the 26th March with my very special guest speaker, Laura Thomas, who has a wonderfully inspiring story to share.”
Chancellor confirms over £50 million for low income families who heat their homes with oil to help tackle surging prices.
The price of kerosene – the fuel used for heating oil – has been especially affected by the conflict in the Middle East and has risen faster than other fuels such as petrol and gas.
Government announces intention to regulate heating oil sector to introduce new consumer protections, alongside securing agreement with industry to quickly improve customer experiences.
Families are to benefit from over £50 million to help people pay for the rising cost of heating oil. With winter drawing to a close, and families struggling with the rising price of heating oils, this government is committed to helping ensure that vulnerable families are able to heat their homes and access hot water.
Scotland will receive £4.6 million.
The price of kerosene – the fuel used for heating oil - has been particularly impacted by the conflict in the Middle East and is currently double that of crude oil.
In Great Britain, unlike gas and electricity customers, those who heat their homes with oil are not covered by the energy price cap, meaning they are exposed to more immediate energy price hikes.
Many, including some of the most vulnerable households, will need to pay an upfront lump sum to top up their tanks in order to maintain their heating and hot water.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “Heating oil prices have spiked sharply, and I know that for families in rural communities that is a real and urgent problem.
”That’s why we’re putting over £50 million of support to help the people who need it most, including funding for the Northern Ireland Executive to deliver support in Northern Ireland where this issue hits hardest.”
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “This government is committed to fighting people’s corner in tackling cost of living pressures. With this investment, alongside new measures to protect customers against any unfair practices, we are standing up for the British people.”
To bridge the gap, the Chancellor is announcing over £50 million of targeted financial support, helping low-income households in rural communities who have no choice but to top up their tanks at a time when prices have risen so significantly.
In England, funding will be distributed by local authorities via the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), which comes into effect from 1 April, targeted areas with higher rates of oil heating.
This is a particular issue in Northern Ireland, where a greater proportion of homes rely on heating oil, and we have allocated £17 million to support them. England will receive £27 million, Scotland £4.6 million and Wales £3.8 million.
This funding has been allocated based on census data, reflecting where the greatest need is, and it will be allocated directly to the devolved governments, with the expectation that it will be used to support vulnerable households.
Heating oil is different from other sectors in the energy market as it does not have the same consumer protections and is not regulated by Ofgem. The government intends to introduce new consumer protections for heating oil customers and is rapidly exploring new ways to step in and ensure households are better protected.
This includes:
An agreement secured with industry on a strengthened Code of Practice to rapidly provide enhanced protections to customers, including greater flexibility on delivery volumes and improving price transparency and formalising a Priority Customers Register – meaning all customers who are vulnerable are eligible for prioritised support in times of disruption.
Introducing stronger consumer protections in the heating oil market, which could cover dispute resolution, a greater variety of repayment options for those facing hardship, greater price transparency and enhanced protections for vulnerable groups such as the elderly.
Supporting the Competition and Markets Authority’s plans to carry out a more comprehensive examination of the UK’s heating oil industry.
Exploring the creation of a new ombudsman or appointment of a regulator, such as Ofgem, to champion consumers, and taking powers to do so through the Energy Independence Bill.
Working with the Northern Ireland Executive to ensure that protections are fit for purpose for Northern Irish households, who are particularly reliant on heating oil.
In addition, the Chancellor earlier this week wrote to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to ask that it remains vigilant across heating oil prices and supports CMA action to tackle unjustified price increases.
The government will not tolerate profiteering or unfair practices and urge customers to share any evidence of price manipulation with the CMA.
Vulnerable households who are facing immediate financial difficulties as a result of rising heating oil prices are encouraged to contact their local authority to find out what support may be available to them.
An action-packed free gardening workshop for children
Dobbies is teaming up with Gabby’s Dollhouse to bring an extra special spring themed experience to families at its Edinburgh store with a free-to-attend Little Seedlings Club on Saturday 4 April, packed with fun and creativity.
Gabby’s Dollhouse is a kid-favourite, cat-tastic show by Dreamworks that follows Gabby and her cat friends in their adventures around her magical dollhouse. Each episode is filled with fun, crafts, baking, music and problem solving.
This April, the Little Seedlings will step into the magical world of Gabby’s Dollhouse for a 60-minute Easter adventure bursting with springtime fun at the Edinburgh store. Joined by Eggy the Easter Kitty Bunny, children will discover the wonders of the season, from learning about baby animals to blooming, colourful flowers, before diving into hands-on activities and a fun filled in-store quest.
The workshop will begin by welcoming Gabby and her kitty friends, before Eggy hops in to sprinkle some Easter magic and share fascinating traditions from around the world. Little Seedlings will then set off on Gabby’s Easter Hunt, inspired by the celebration in Kitty Fairy’s Fairy Tail Garden, before learning about the bright, beautiful blooms that spring brings.
To round off the adventure, every child will create their own adorable kitty or bunny planter, filled with cat grass seeds. A perfect take-home reminder of their magical day.
Dobbies’ Event Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson, said: “We’re delighted to welcome fans of Gabby’s Dollhouse to our April Little Seedlings Club and team up with Dreamworks on a truly special Easter workshop at our Edinburgh store.
“The interactive, hands-on event is a wonderful way for children to celebrate the start of spring and learn more about animals and flowers that come to life at this time of year. We’re looking forward to watching the Little Seedlings enjoy a magical Gabby’s Dollhouse Easter adventure at Dobbies.”
Dobbies’ Little Seedlings Club is a free-to-attend workshop that typically takes place on the first Sunday of every month in the Edinburgh store. The workshops are suited for children aged 4-10 and covers a range of seasonal topics set to inspire the next generation of gardening enthusiasts.
For those looking to get involved in Gabby’s Dollhouse Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies, and book a free space this April, visit www.dobbies.com/events.
• 1,000-capacity fanzone to screen Scotland matches and key World Cup fixtures
• Early bird tickets from £10 including a drink for Scotland games
• Family-friendly screenings and daytime replays so fans of all ages can enjoy the tournament
Football fans in Edinburgh will have a new destination to watch the world’s biggest sporting event this summer, as Gyle Shopping Centre prepares to host the Edinburgh World Cup Fanzone – a vibrant outdoor hub where supporters can gather to experience the tournament together.
Running from 11 June to 19 July, the fanzone will bring the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to the capital with giant screen match broadcasts, live hosts, fan competitions and a lively matchday atmosphere.
With many fixtures taking place overnight due to the tournament being hosted in North America, organisers will also introduce family-friendly daytime replay screenings, allowing younger fans and families to enjoy the biggest moments of the World Cup together in a lively shared setting.
As Scotland prepare to compete on football’s biggest stage for the first time in nearly 30-years, the tournament represents a hugely anticipated moment for supporters across the country. The Edinburgh Fanzone will provide a dedicated space for fans to come together, celebrate the national team and soak up the atmosphere of the world’s most watched sporting event.
Located at Gyle Shopping Centre, the purpose-built fanzone will host up to 1,000 supporters per screening, making it one of the largest public viewing destinations for World Cup matches in the city.
A Festival Atmosphere for Football Fans
Fans attending the fanzone can expect a lively matchday experience including:
• Large outdoor screen showing live World Cup fixtures • Matchday hosts and special guests for Scotland games • Licensed bars and food vendors • Deck chair seating and covered viewing areas • Competitions, giveaways and fan engagement • Family-friendly replay screenings for late-night matches • Brand activation zones and fan experiences
The venue will screen all Scotland matches, alongside the majority of tournament fixtures, ensuring supporters have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the World Cup with fellow fans.
Tickets Now on Sale
Tickets are now available for Scotland match screenings, with early bird tickets starting from £10, including a pint or soft drink. Capacity for Scotland games is expected to sell quickly, with strong demand anticipated from fans eager to watch the national team in a shared atmosphere.
All other fixtures will be accessible to fans throughout the tournament, making the space a welcoming hub for supporters of all nations.
The fanzone will also feature premium covered seating, allowing fans to enjoy the games in comfort regardless of the weather.
Easy Access Across the City
Located in west Edinburgh, Gyle Shopping Centre offers excellent transport connections, with direct access via the Edinburgh Trams and multiple Lothian Buses routes, making it easy for fans across the city to attend. Motorists can also benefit from straightforward road access and nearby parking facilities.
In addition, rail passengers can travel via Gateway Station, which provides a direct and convenient train link within close proximity. This strong connectivity ensures smooth access for those arriving by public transport or car.
With a lively festival atmosphere planned throughout the tournament, organisers expect the fanzone to attract between 15,000 and 20,000 visitors across the five-week event.
Tickets and Information
Tickets for Scotland games are available now, with early bird tickets starting from £10 including a drink.
