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Macmillan Cancer Support finds 10-year Scottish cancer plan ‘not delivering’, as Holyrood election looms


  • New data from Macmillan Cancer Support shows almost one in four people with cancer in Scotland are lacking specialist nursing support during their care – a figure basically unchanged since June 2022
  • Additionally, one in two people living with cancer in Scotland have been affected by local variation in their treatment and care, despite Scottish Government pledges.
  • Carrol Pollock, 61, a retired schoolteacher from Larbert, said: “No-one should have to fight for basic standards of cancer care,” after she was left to process the trauma of her cancer diagnosis and treatment alone. 

In the buildup to the Holyrood election on Thursday 7 May, Macmillan Cancer Support has launched its Manifesto, calling for bolder and faster action to address a patchwork system that is failing the people.   

Three years into the Scottish Cancer Strategy, the charity is concerned that progress to ensure people get the support they need is flatlining, and too many people are still not having their needs met. 

New data from Macmillan shows almost one in four people with cancer in Scotland (24%) either do not have the support of a specialist cancer nurse during their NHS care but would like it, or the support they receive from a specialist cancer nurse isn’t enough to meet their needsi. This figure, from the charity’s January 2026 survey, has shown no signs of significant improvement since at least June 2022ii.  

In addition, other recent data from Macmillan shows 49% of people living with cancer in Scotland have been affected by local variation in their treatment and care, including 46% who have had to travel for an hour or more for a test, scan or treatmentiii. 

Everyone with cancer, no matter who they are or where they live, should be able to get the best possible cancer treatment and care that Scotland has to offer.  

Carrol Pollock, 61, from Larbert, a retired primary school teacher and long-standing Macmillan volunteer, was abruptly told she had cancer. This happened following a routine mammogram that led to further tests that were consistently downplayed. She felt distressed and unprepared as result.

Initially she received compassionate support from a Macmillan-trained nurse who helped her cope with the shock of diagnosis. However, once transferred to her local hospital care became fragmented and her treatment was delayed well beyond the 35 days stated by Scottish cancer guidelines. Carrol waited for weeks without a clear plan despite being told in mid-January 2025 that the cancer may be incurable. 

Carrol eventually received chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy but felt support dropped away at the end of treatment.  

Carrol says: “The delays and the impact of the uncertain incurable update was huge and left me feeling overwhelmed, powerless and unable to advocate for myself.

“No one should have to fight for better standards of cancer care. Better communication, less fragmented treatment and care and keeping to cancer waiting time targets are vital for improving outcomes for people with cancer in Scotland.” 

Peter Hastie, Macmillan’s External Affairs Manager for Scotland, said: “Without decisive action that goes further and faster than ever before, the gaps in outcomes for people with cancer in Scotland will remain unacceptably wide. The system is at crisis point and the pressures are growing. The people of Scotland deserve better from their cancer strategy. 

“Macmillan is committed to being a partner in the challenges ahead. We will do whatever it takes to work alongside government, the health system, professionals, sector partners and most importantly, people living with cancer in Scotland – wherever they live, whichever community they’re from – to make it happen.” 

Macmillan’s Manifesto launch on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile 

People living with cancer, Macmillan professionals, local politicians and others gathered on Tuesday 17 March at The Scottish Storytelling Centre to launch Macmillan’s Manifesto calls, in the build to what is being termed the most consequential election at Holyrood since devolution. 

Macmillan is calling for: 

  • Bold action to tackle inequities in cancer care. We need to move faster to reduce inequity in cancer outcomes for people in the most deprived areas. 
  • Clear steps to address unwarranted variation in treatment and care. 49% of people living with cancer in Scotland have been affected by local variation in their treatment and careiv – this situation is wholly unacceptable and must change.  
  • A revolution in cancer data and digital infrastructure. The publication of vital statistics since the Strategy was released has been infrequent and incomplete. Macmillan is calling for the annual publication of detailed cancer statistics, broken down by deprivation and ethnicity, so we can build an equitable system  
  • Renewed commitment to delivering person-centred care. Macmillan is the proud delivery partner of our innovative Improving the Cancer Journey (ICJ) which will cover the whole of Scotland by Spring 2026. We’re calling for the renewed commitment to embedding this community-based across the country  

For information, support or just someone to talk to, call Macmillan’s free, confidential Support line 7-days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or visit:

macmillan.org.uk/whateveryouneed. 

macmillan-manifestoDownload

Loganair opens applications for 2026 GreenSkies Community Fund

Loganair, the UK’s leading regional airline, is welcoming new applications to its GreenSkies Community Fund after distributing more than £100,000 to local projects over the last five years.

The bespoke environmental initiative, established in 2021, is designed to help charities, community groups, and small businesses to achieve their sustainability goals.

Applications for the fund are now open and will close on 7th May. Over the last five years, Loganair has awarded 24 projects over £100,000 in funding.

Last year’s successful projects included:

  • Murtle Garden in Aberdeen, which received £5,000 to install a new polytunnel in its walled garden, providing 50 young people living with learning disabilities access to a year-round growing and learning environment.
  • Shed the Light in Derry/Londonderry was awarded £5,000 to install a solar generator at Creggan Country Park to support its renewable energy workshops.
  • Winchester Hospice in Hampshire was granted £5,000 to purchase an e-bike and install bike parking to support low-emission palliative home care.
  • Gifford Community Woodland in East Lothian received £3,180 to plant 420 trees in an effort to restore woodland damaged by ash disease.
  • Uigshader Living Forest Project in Portree received £4,185 to purchase battery-powered tools for low-impact peatland restoration.

The variety of projects illustrates the breadth of the impact that the GreenSkies Community Fund has within communities, supporting organisations across a wide range of sectors to reduce their carbon footprint and improve sustainability.

Rebecca Borresen, director of safety and sustainability at Loganair, said: “Through our GreenSkies Community Fund, we’re proud to support the organisations and individuals taking practical steps to make their communities more sustainable. From restoring natural habitats to investing in renewable energy and low-emission transport, the projects we’ve funded so far show how local action can make a real difference.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the innovative ideas that come forward this year and continuing to support initiatives that help reduce environmental impact while delivering lasting benefits for communities across the UK.”

The GreenSkies Community Fund forms part of Loganair’s broader environmental programme, which includes commitments to carbon offsetting, investment in sustainable aviation technologies and achieving the ambitious target of becoming net zero by 2040.

Since its launch, the fund has supported numerous community projects and businesses across the UK in adopting greener practices and reducing their environmental impact.

The GreenSkies Community Fund is funded through a small mandatory carbon offsetting charge applied to every Loganair flight, with proceeds invested in accredited offsetting projects and community initiatives.

Interested organisations can learn more about the fund and submit their applications by visiting: 

https://www.loganair.co.uk/flying-with-us/greenskies-community-fund/

Casting Call for BBC One’s The Celebrity Inner Circle

BBC ONE quiz show The Celebrity Inner Circle is back for a second series and we’re looking for contestants to take part.  The best part, you don’t have to do it alone as each player will be paired up with a celebrity teammate. 

Hosted by TV & radio star Amanda Holden, we are looking for people with bags of personality to apply for this ultimate game of general knowledge, strategy and gut instinct that comes with a chance of winning a cash prize! 

Please feel free to circulate the attached flyer internally within your organisation and amongst colleagues, friends and family who may wish to take part. 

Anyone who wishes to apply should fill out the online application form here:  

https://eu.castitreach.com/a/terntv/theinnercircle2/welcome

Auditions are starting immediately so we encourage anyone interested to complete an application form as soon as possible. 

Children’s author Joseph Coelho visits Haddington primary pupil

Primary pupils from across Haddington enjoyed a visit from children’s author Joseph Coelho at Knox Academy as part of their Reading Schools celebrations.  

Pupils from five local primary schools gathered at Knox Academy for the special event which was organised by Scottish Book Trust, with help from school librarian Emma Robertson.

The event was part of an initiative to encourage schools in East Lothian to sign up to the Reading Schools programme. Its aim was to show children how much fun reading and creative writing can be, through the experience of an author visit.  

The successful Reading Schools programme is developed by Scottish Book Trust, the national charity changing lives with reading and writing.  It helps schools build a reading culture, where every pupil is encouraged to feed their imagination through books. Schools can work their way through three levels of accreditation – Core, Silver and Gold – and each step is a transformational process for pupils, staff, and the wider school community.   

Joseph Coelho OBE is an award-winning children’s author who was Waterstones Children’s Laureate from 2022 to 2024. He won the 2024 Carnegie Medal for Writing. The London-born writer is a champion of school libraries, and he has also been praised for making poetry accessible.  

He says: ‘It was a blast sharing the world of Relic Hamilton Genie Hunter with pupils at Knox Academy, with the brilliant Scottish BookTrust. Pupils asked wonderful questions and shared their wishes to make the world a better place.’ 

Emma Robertson, School Librarian at Knox Academy, said: ‘Having authors like Joe visit schools really makes a difference to our young people as they can meet the person behind the books and get the chance to interact with them in a fun and inclusive way.

“ Now more than ever, we need beautiful stories to inspire and delight us and Joe’s talent certainly shone through to inspire the next generation of writers and artists.  

‘It takes a special person to be able to have the adults laughing along with the children and Joe kept all of us mesmerised. We really appreciated all the work that went into the event itself, and it is certainly one our pupils and staff will not forget for a long time.’ 

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust said: ‘We were delighted to support Joseph Coelho’s visit to Knox Academy. An author visit allows pupils to fully experience the magic of books, and encourages them to find pleasure in reading.  

‘It also supports the work of our Reading Schools programme. So far, 629 schools have been accredited as Reading Schools, and there are a further 705 schools currently working towards their very first Reading Schools accreditation. This means that over 50% of Scotland’s schools are now engaged in the programme.  

‘An accreditation is a fantastic accomplishment for pupils and teachers alike, and achieving this status is a way of demonstrating a school’s commitment to developing vibrant reading cultures and the many benefits this brings.’ 

For more information, contact Caroline Young, PR and Marketing Manager, at caroline.young@scottishbooktrust.com.

Small changes could make big difference to Edinburgh charities

Edinburgh charities may be able to improve their financial resilience through smarter approaches to saving, despite ongoing pressure from rising costs and uncertain income streams, new research suggests. 

A survey found that many charities hold substantial cash reserves, yet almost half lack confidence in their long-term financial stability. The findings point to a disconnect between balances held and the role those funds play in supporting sustainable operations. 

While reserves remain a vital safety net, the research highlights an opportunity for charities to make their money work harder. By reviewing where cash is held and exploring more suitable savings options, charities could strengthen resilience without increasing risk or reducing accessibility. 

The survey by Redwood Bank, MoneyComms’ Best Charity Savings Provider 2026, found that 69 per cent of UK charities hold over £50,000 in savings, with almost half (46 per cent) holding more than £100,000. When current accounts are included, 84 per cent hold more than £50,000 and 68.5 per cent hold over £100,000. 

Despite these substantial balances, charities are under mounting pressure: 

  • 80 per cent reported rising day-to-day costs 
  • 73 per cent said they struggle to secure stable donations and funding 
  • 62 per cent have seen the value of donations decrease 
  • Almost half (49 per cent) lack confidence in their long-term financial stability 

One charity said: “We face increases in demand for our services at the same time as our donations are falling. That combination is unsustainable.” 

The research also shows that while 81 per cent of charities review their savings at least annually, many still do not seek alternatives that could improve returns. Fewer than half (44 per cent) do not hold a savings account with a second provider, choosing instead to keep their money in a current account, with over a third of these charities citing lack of awareness of the options available. 

The survey highlighted what matters most when choosing a savings account. Alongside competitive interest rates (85 per cent), charities value accessibility and withdrawal terms (72 per cent), bank reputation (60 per cent), digital ease (56 per cent) and ethical or social values (51 per cent). 

The findings have prompted the specialist Bank to draft its first Redwood Research Report, How smarter saving can strengthen the UK charity sector, which sets out practical steps to help organisations make their reserves work harder. 

Jessica Darrah, Senior Savings Product Manager at Redwood, said: “Charities are working tirelessly to support communities but are often doing so under financial strain and with limited options.

“Our research shows that while many have substantial reserves, these funds are not always working as hard as they could or should be. When every pound matters, smarter saving strategies could make a real difference to financial resilience. 

“As a specialist business bank, we can provide personal service with consistently competitive savings rates. The Bank has been recognised as the Best Business Variable Rate Deposit Account Provider at the Moneyfacts Awards for seven consecutive years, reflecting our commitment to delivering value and clarity for customers. 

“Unlike traditional high street banks, we can focus on understanding the specific needs of charities and smaller organisations. Our dedicated savings products and knowledgeable team aim to make saving simpler, more transparent and better suited to the realities of the sector.” 

The Redwood Research Report can be downloaded here:

 https://redwoodbank.co.uk/savings/charity-savings-accounts 

Edinburgh swimmers’ ‘Victorian Pool Crawl’ raises over £40,000

Edinburgh Leisure’s five-pool charity challenge supports local people facing barriers to being active

Sixty-one Edinburgh swimmers completed Edinburgh Leisure’s aquathlon-style Victorian Pool Crawl on Easter Monday, 6th April, walking 16km and swimming 5km across Edinburgh Leisure’s five historic Victorian pools, raising more than £40,000 for the Active Communities programme.

The challenge, sponsored by Landmarc Support Services, began at Dalry Swim Centre (est. 1895) before continuing through Warrender Swim Centre (est. 1887), Glenogle Swim Centre (est. 1899), and Leith Victoria Swim Centre (est. 1900), finishing at Portobello Swim Centre (est. 1901).

Edinburgh Leisure also hosted its Great Lengths exhibition, highlighting the history of the city’s Victorian pools and bathhouses.

The Victorian Pool Crawl was conceived in 2025 by a regular swimmer from Leith Victoria Swim Centre as a community fundraising challenge. After the inaugural event, the challenge became an official Edinburgh Leisure fundraiser, growing from 13 participants in 2025 to 61 this year.

Among the original 13-strong team was Marek Bernat, aged 49, who learned to swim at Dalry Swim Centre in 2019. Despite having found completing the final lane tough last year, it was also extremely rewarding. So much so that Marek and two of the original group returned this year with a new team of ‘Leith Victorians’ who collectively raised over £5,500.

A year ago, Landmarc employee Tamsin Gee wouldn’t have imagined taking on a half-marathon-distance challenge. By her own admission, she was “allergic to exercise”.

One year on, she celebrated completing this year’s event alongside colleagues and friends at Portobello Swim Centre—an achievement she described as huge. “It was a fantastic day, seamlessly organised and such fun to take part in,” she said.

Kevin Kneeshaw, Landmarc’s Regional Operations Manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland said, “At Landmarc, we are passionate about supporting initiatives that make a real difference locally.

“The Victorian Pool Crawl not only celebrates Edinburgh’s heritage but also helps break down barriers to being active. It has been fantastic to be part of such a positive and impactful event.”

The event’s top fundraiser Frederick Phillips sees first-hand the impact this fundraising has for local people. He volunteers with Edinburgh Leisure’s Ageing Well project as a ‘Buddy Swimmer’, supporting older people to enjoy swimming which Frederick says, “transforms lives by supporting physical health, reducing isolation and opening up opportunities that simply wouldn’t exist otherwise.”

Adam Shaffer, Events & Individual Giving Fundraiser at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “This was a great event to organise, drawing on colleagues’ expertise and enthusiasm for getting people active.

“It was brilliant to see so many people turning out to cheer on the swimmers and support our charitable mission.”

Rachael McCrea, Head of Fundraising at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “Every pound raised helps remove financial, health and disability barriers that stop people getting active.

“We’re so grateful to our incredible participants whose efforts have raised over £40,000, and over the course of the day demonstrated how taking part in physical activity improves health, wellbeing and builds communities.”

All funds raised support Active Communities, Edinburgh Leisure’s programme tackling inequalities and inactivity. Active Communities supports around 14,700 people a year, including people affected by health conditions, disability, poverty and other barriers to physical activity.

Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to helping people lead more active, healthy lives. With 75 sport, leisure and school venues across the city, it creates opportunities for everyone to get active and stay active.

Donations to support the Victorian Pool Crawlers can still be made via JustGiving: 

https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/vpc26

Joint Statement on the conflict in the Middle East

WORLD LEADERS WELCOME ‘CEASEFIRE’

Statement by President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Starmer, Prime Minister Carney, President Dan, acting Prime Minister Frederiksen, Prime Minister Frostadóttir, Prime Minister Jetten, Prime Minister Kristersson, Prime Minister Mitsotakis, Prime Minister Sanchez, Prime Minister Støre, President Stubb, Prime Minister Takaichi, President of the European Commission von der Leyen, President of the European Council Costa:

We welcome the two-week ceasefire concluded between the United States and Iran today (Wednesday 8 April). 

We thank Pakistan and all partners involved for facilitating this important agreement.

The goal must now be to negotiate a swift and lasting end to the war within the coming days. This can only be achieved through diplomatic means.

We strongly encourage quick progress towards a substantive negotiated settlement. 

This will be crucial to protect the civilian population of Iran and ensure security in the region. It can avert a severe global energy crisis.

We support these diplomatic efforts. To this end, we are in close contact with the United States and other partners.

We call upon all sides to implement the ceasefire, including in Lebanon.

Our Governments will contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Paws at the ready as new dog park opens in Edinburgh

Unleashing even more fun with tenth park launch

A NEW dog adventure park with panoramic views towards Arthur’s Seat is preparing to open in East Edinburgh, marking its tenth location for one of Scotland’s fastest-growing canine leisure brands.
 
Set just off the A1 near Musselburgh, the brand-new two-acre dog park – known as Big Arthur’s Field – is the latest venture by award-winning operator Unleash The Dogs. The park will be its second to open in the capital following the successful launch of the West Edinburgh location last year.

Opening this Saturday, 11th April, final touches are being added in the coming days and bookings are expected to ramp up quickly.

To celebrate the opening, visiting dogs will be treated to complimentary puppuccinos during launch weekend, with owners also being treated to hot drinks and snacks, adding an extra touch of fun for pet owners booking the first sessions at the new site.

Craig Gammage, founder of Unleash The Dogs, said: “Opening our tenth park is a huge moment for us. When we started just over three years ago, the goal was simple, to create the very best places in Scotland for dogs to run free safely. To reach ten sites is a huge milestone for us and we’re really excited for the future.

“This site is something we’re really proud of. The setting is incredible. You’ve got that iconic Arthur’s Seat backdrop, but you’re only minutes from the city. It gives you that rural escape without the long drive.”

Big Arthur’s Field is the largest park in the company’s portfolio to date, spanning two acres and featuring a wide range of purpose-built obstacles and enrichment features suitable for dogs of all sizes and energy levels.

Each session is privately booked online, guaranteeing exclusive access for up to eight dogs at a time. The model has proven hugely popular with owners seeking a secure environment where their pets can exercise off-lead without the unpredictability of public parks.

The Edinburgh expansion builds on the success of the brand’s first capital site, which was voted number one in its region at the British Dog Field of the Year awards within just four weeks of opening, beating more than 60 competitors in a public vote.

Craig added: “Winning that award so soon after first launching in Edinburgh meant a lot. It showed that owners here recognise quality and appreciate the level of care we put into every site.

“There’s been a real buzz around this particular site too. People have been driving past, messaging us, asking when they can book. It’s brilliant to see that excitement.

“Ultimately, if dogs leave tired and happy and owners leave saying it was the best hour of their week, then we’ve done our job.”

For more information about Unleash the Dogs, the sites and how to book your slot visit www.unleashthedogs.co.uk

Aldi calls on shoppers to donate pet food in stores this National Pet Month

Aldi is encouraging shoppers in Edinburgh to donate pet food at its in-store community donation points this April to mark National Pet Month, as more families feel the impact of rising costs when caring for pets.

With 86% of pet owners saying the cost of owning a pet has increased, local charities continue to see demand for support, including help with everyday essentials such as pet food.

The supermarket is calling on shoppers across Edinburgh to support their local communities by donating essential items in stores. Donations will be distributed to local charities and community groups through the supermarket’s long-standing partnership with Neighbourly.

Since partnering with Neighbourly in 2019, Aldi has donated the equivalent of more than 50 million meals to good causes across the UK, helping ensure surplus food reaches those who need it most while reducing food waste.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “Pets are part of the family, but the cost-of-living conversation rarely acknowledges them, when in reality, increasing costs are putting extra pressure on the whole household budget, including everyday essentials – like pet food.

“By making it simple for customers to donate in-store, via our existing partnership with Neighbourly, we hope to support local communities and help ensure families can continue to care for their much-loved pets.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO at Neighbourly, said: “Demand for support remains high for all daily household essentials.

“Aldi’s continued commitment – alongside the generosity of its customers – plays a vital role in supporting local charities and the communities they serve.”

Shoppers can donate pet food and everyday essentials at Aldi’s in-store community donation points, where items are distributed to local charities and community groups through its partnership with Neighbourly. Donation points are available in stores nationwide throughout the year, making it easy for customers to support their local communities whenever they shop.

Supporting communities is a core part of Aldi’s approach, with a range of initiatives in place to help ensure surplus food reaches those who need it most.

Following a successful pilot across three Regional Distribution Centres, the supermarket will provide a further 1.2 million meals to families in need this year through its partnership with The Bread and Butter Thing, as the initiative rolls out nationwide.

Aldi also works with Company Shop Group to redistribute surplus stock from its Regional Distribution Centres, helping to ensure that products which cannot be sold in stores are still put to good use.