Edinburgh International Book Festival opens submissions for Global Ink 2026

Call for Festival Directors Worldwide

Submissions for Global Ink 2026, Edinburgh International Book Festival’s flagship international forum for Festival Directors, are now open. Taking place in Edinburgh from 17–19 August 2026, as part of the wider Book Festival programme (15–30 August), Global Ink 2026 will unite leaders from twenty international festivals for three days of dynamic roundtables, networking, and sector-leading events, showcasing the breadth and diversity of Scotland’s cultural sector.

With a core focus on increasing the presence of Scottish writers and artists in festival programmes around the world, Global Ink 2026 builds on the Book Festival’s four decades of commitment to international exchange and collaboration.

Supported by the Scottish Government and Creative Scotland through the Festivals EXPO Fund, the forum is designed to foster new partnerships and enduring connections between Scotland and the global festival community.

EIBF has long pioneered international networks and collaboration between festivals, as a founding member of the Word Alliance, and committee member of the Global Alliance of Literature Festivals. 

Programme Highlights

  • Global Ink Directors’ Sessions: Monday 17 August, featuring closed-door roundtables and sector panels.
  • Scottish Showcase Day: Tuesday 18 August, with curated public events and connection with Scottish talent.
  • Industry Brunch : Wednesday 19 August, open networking with the Scottish and UK literary sector.
  • Closing Night Ceilidh: A celebration of Scottish culture to conclude the forum. 

Delegates arriving earlier in the week can also enjoy an Opening Party & Welcome Reception on Saturday 15 August, and Sunday 16 August’s Scottish Programme Highlight event.    

EIBF is delighted to have support from the Scottish Government and Creative Scotland, as the national public body for the arts, with this event being made possible by the Festivals EXPO Fund. 

Underlining the value being placed upon this event, Global Ink 2026 was announced by the Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture, Angus Robertson during the 2025 Book Festival programme.  We are currently working with the Scottish Government to shape joint opportunities involving delegates throughout this global forum. 

Delegate Benefits

International Festival Directors selected for Global Ink 2026 will receive:

  • Guaranteed admission to a number of Book Festival events, with exclusive opportunities to meet leading Scottish writers.
  • Tailored networking sessions with key Scottish stakeholders across culture, policy, and business.
  • Access to a fully-catered Hospitality Area for industry professionals.
  • Invitations to special events, including the opening party, receptions, and partners’ dinner.
  • Confidential closed-door sessions for candid sector discussion and professional exchange.
  • Partner-rate accommodation for the duration of Global Ink 2026.

Who Should Apply

Applications are welcomed from Directors of book, multi-arts, or ideas festivals based outside the UK, particularly those keen to develop long-term partnerships with the Edinburgh International Book Festival and Scotland’s wider cultural sector.

Successful delegates will benefit from special rates at partner hotels for the duration of their stay.

A separate submissions process will open for UK-based Festival Directors in Spring 2026.

Key Dates

Call Opens: 4 December 2025

Application Deadline: 24 January 2026

Forum Dates: 17–19 August 2026 (with additional events on 15 and 16 August 2026 for early attendees)

How to Apply

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.edbookfest.co.uk or contact Project Lead for Global Ink Kate Seiler at globalink@edbookfest.co.uk.

Jenny Niven, Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival, said: “Since 2024, our Global Ink programme has fostered strong international collaborations between the Edinburgh International Book Festival and other global literary festivals, which has seen new bridges built between countries and organisations, and a host of exciting new overseas opportunities open up to Scottish writers and thinkers. 

“Building on decades of international collaboration at the EIBF, we’re thrilled to be able to expand on this work with our 2026 edition, thanks to the support of Scottish Government and Creative Scotland’s Festivals EXPO Fund, forging new pathways to global audiences for Scotland’s breadth of fantastic writers, both new and established, as well as learning from our many sister Festivals around the world.

“We look forward to welcoming them to Edinburgh next August.”

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “The expansion of Global Ink shows how our increased funding for Scottish festivals is creating more lasting connections with leading book festivals around the world. In turn this creates more global opportunities for Scottish writers and publishers. 

“Our commitment to increase culture funding, with an additional £4m a year for Scotland’s festivals, will have an impact in many different ways, including an even more influential role for Edinburgh International Book Festival and a richer experience for its audiences.” 

Scottish businesses set sights on team training to drive growth in 2026

  • Upskilling staff (46%) is Scottish businesses’ top focus area for 2026  
  • Firms will also be focused on enhancing their use of technology (44%) and improving productivity (37%) 
  • Just over two in five (42%) say they’ll need extra support with upskilling to achieve their 2026 goals  

Scottish businesses are making upskilling their focus for 2026, according to research from Bank of Scotland’s Business Barometer.   

In the year ahead, nearly half (46%) of Scottish businesses will be focussing on upskilling colleagues. Another 44% will be looking to enhance their use of technology, while more than a third (37%) will be looking to improve their productivity.  

Reflecting their priority areas, upskilling staff (42%) is the area where Scottish businesses say they’d most value extra support to achieve their 2026 goals, along with technology enhancements (30%). Just over a quarter (27%) would also value help improving their environmental sustainability.  

The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.  

Martyn Kendrick, Scotland Director at Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking, said: “Scottish businesses are putting people at the centre of their investment plans – something that will benefit the national economy, as well as their own growth aspirations.   

“Whatever businesses’ ambitions for 2026, we’ll be ready to provide our support to help them achieve their goals.”   

Supercharging our immune system could tackle cancer

Researchers find new way to “reenergise” immune cells

SUPERCHARGING immune cells could provide an effective way to tackle cancer, according to new research by scientists in Scotland.

The team at the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute in Glasgow studied how the immune system works and why it becomes “exhausted” by cancer.

T cells, which are the immune system’s front line against disease, eventually become overcome by cancer allowing it to grow.

Their research, published in Cell Reports, has identified a potential way to “boost” T cells, a key defence against cancer.

Lead researcher Professor Victoria Cowling, of the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute and University of Glasgow, said: “T cells need to rapidly multiply and produce proteins to fight off infections. That requires a huge amount of energy.

“We’ve discovered that a little-known enzyme, called CMTR1, helps switch on the energy supply by changing how certain genes work.

“If we can find ways to boost this process, we could improve how the immune system responds to cancer which could be a game-changer in how we treat the disease.”

CMTR1 plays a vital role in energising T cells, acting as a switch to help the immune cells ramp up their energy production.

The team found that CMTR1 tweaks the instructions inside cells — known as RNA — so that the right versions of energy-related proteins are made.

These proteins help shape the mitochondria, which are like tiny batteries inside cells. With the right shape, mitochondria can produce more energy, helping T cells stay strong and active.

Without CMTR1, the mitochondria break apart and don’t work properly, leaving T cells weak and unable to fight off infections effectively. With CMTR1 present, T cells have more energy allowing them to proliferate and fight infection.

Next steps would be to identify new or existing treatments which increase CMTR1 to give exhausted T cells the power to tackle cancer cells.

Cancer Research UK Director of Research, Dr Catherine Elliott, said: “Scientific breakthroughs like this have the potential to transform how we see and, crucially, how we treat cancer.

“Our immune system is a key area of cancer research and scrutinising how it works can help create real-world impact for those affected by cancer.”

In Scotland, around 34,800* people are diagnosed with cancer each year, with around 16,400** people dying from the disease annually, so finding new ways to tackle the disease is vital.

The study was funded by Cancer Research UK, the European Research Council, the Medical Research Council, and the Wellcome Trust.

Cyrenians: Community Pantries

Our Community Pantries offer a unique, low cost way to access a variety of foods, including Chilled and fresh produce, and ambient cupboard staples.

We’re working so that no one suffers from food insecurity – it’s part of our work tackling the causes and consequences of homelessness.

Find our pantries at St Brides Centre, Goodtrees Community Centre, The Neighbourhood Centre, The Ripple, Hibernian Community Foundation, Valley Park Community Centre and Southside Community Centre.

Find out more about our pantries here: https://buff.ly/oVCt71D

Next Big Thing: Discover Your Children’s Hidden Talent For Just £3

Edinburgh Leisure is kicking off the new year by giving primary-aged children the chance to discover a new passion – without the commitment.

Their popular ‘Next Big Thing’ Coaching Tasters are here, offering £3 taster sessions from 26 January – 1 February, plus an exclusive half-price February coaching offer when you sign up on the day.

The campaign aims to spark curiosity and encourage kids to try something new, from swimming and gymnastics to tennis and more. All sessions are delivered by expert instructors in a fun, friendly environment.

“Sports coaching isn’t just about learning a skill – it’s about building confidence, making friends, and staying active,” said Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.

“Our tasters give families the chance to explore what works for their child before committing to a full programme.”

With only 59% of school-aged children meeting recommended daily activity levels, Edinburgh Leisure is urging parents to help their children find their next big passion through sport.

Why Join?

  • Fun, friendly coaching for all abilities
  • Expert instructors to guide every step
  • A great way to stay active, make friends, and build confidence
  • Flexible options across the city

Book Now: Explore available sessions and sign up at:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/coaching-tasters/

Make this January the start of something big – because diving, swimming, gymnastics, basketball, athletics, badminton, tennis or football could be your child’s Next Big Thing.

Stronger parental leave rights to give millions of working families the “security they deserve”

New day one rights to parental leave set for April

  • Over 18 million workers across the UK to benefit from stronger protections at work, with most insecure workers set to gain the most.   
  • New day one rights from April confirmed for parental leave, whilst bereaved partners set to gain further rights to paternity leave. 
  • Changes create more secure jobs and raise living standards, ensuring economic growth is felt by working people in every part of the UK.   

Millions of workers who were previously denied time off for the birth of their child will become eligible for new day one rights to parental leave from April, through measures being laid at Westminster today (Monday 12 January). 

The changes, which stem from the recently passed Employment Rights Act, will see parents no longer be forced to make the heart-wrenching choice between being there for the first weeks of their child’s life or going back to work to avoid losing their job.  

An additional 32,000 more dads per year will be able to access Paternity Leave immediately, as a mother would with maternity leave.  

This comes as the Government continues its Parental Leave and Pay Review, which will assess the whole system – from maternity and paternity leave to shared parental leave – to see how it can work better for parents and employers.  

Around 390,000 people are estimated to be out of work due to caring responsibilities but want a job, including parents. The reforms to parental leave include the right to take Unpaid Parental Leave from the first day in a new job, giving a further 1.5 million parents more flexibility to share caring responsibilities.

If even 1% of those out of work were able to take up a part-time job as a result of this move, it could boost economic output by around £150m a year. 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “For too long, working people were left without the basic rights and security they deserve. That ends now.

“The changes we’re bringing in will mean every new parent can properly take time off when they have a child, and no one is forced to work while ill just to make ends meet. This is about giving working families the support they need to balance work, health and the cost of living.

“We’re delivering a modern deal for workers. Stronger sick pay, parental leave from day one, and protections that put dignity back at the heart of work. Because when we respect and reward those who keep Britain running, we build a stronger economy for everyone.”

Business Secretary Peter Kyle said: “No one should have to worry about whether they can take time off when their baby arrives, or lose pay simply because they’ve fallen ill.   

“Our improvements to sick pay and parental leave are about giving workers and their families the security they deserve. They will ensure our drive for growth reaches everyone through providing secure, fair paying jobs and giving support to people when they need it most.”

Following campaigning from individuals such as Aaron Horsey, a new Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave will also be introduced from April, providing up to 52 weeks of leave for fathers and partners who lose their partner before their child’s first birthday. This fixes the previously unfair system where bereaved partners had to rely on the compassion of an employer in order to be granted time off to grieve and care for their child. 

Aaron Horsey, campaigner for Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave, said: “Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave ensures that new parents and their employers have a clear route for support at one of the most difficult moments imaginable. It gives them the time and space they need to grieve, care, and begin to rebuild their lives with dignity. 

“By embedding this protection in law, it shows how listening to lived experience can lead to practical, compassionate change that will support families for generations to come.”

Analysis published last week showed that over 18 million workers are set to benefit from the Government’s wider Plan to Make Work Pay, with it particularly supporting the lowest-paid workers, those in insecure jobs, and people facing unfair treatment at work.   

The benefits in the Employment Rights Act significantly outweigh the costs. By restricting exploitative practices like unscrupulous fire and rehire, and giving more workers access to flexible working and guaranteed hours contracts, this country will see improved worker wellbeing, boosted productivity, and a more level playing field for employers. This is all worth billions of pounds per year and is expected to deliver a small yet positive impact on economic growth. 

The government is also bringing in changes to ensure up to 1.3 million additional workers in lower-paid or part-time roles are able to access Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and make sure everyone can access it from the first day of illness.   

This is a substantial shift from the former three-day wait for SSP to kick in, which left people working whilst ill risking increased long-term sickness, one of key factors draining British businesses and the wider economy. 

By improving the quality of work and ensuring that everyone has job security when it matters most, the Government is delivering on its mission to drive growth that is felt by everyone. 

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “The Employment Rights Act will deliver vital common-sense reforms for millions of people across the country – including sick pay for all workers and better leave for parents.  

“Britain will now be brought into line with other countries where workers already have better protections. And crucially, the legislation will give working people the higher living standards and secure incomes that are needed to build a decent life. 

“Good employers will also welcome these changes – the Act protects them from competitors whose business models are built on low-paid, insecure employment.” 

Simon Kelleher, Head of Policy and Influencing at Working Families, said: “Day-one rights for paternity and unpaid parental leave are a positive step forward. Removing the 26-week qualifying period means parents can change jobs without losing essential leave entitlements, something we know has held many people back and can trap families in roles that no longer work for them. 

“To build on this progress, we are looking forward to continuing our engagement with the Government’s ongoing Parental Leave Review to ensure all parents can access a meaningful period of leave.”

Niall Mackenzie, Acas Chief Executive, said: “It can be hugely stressful if a worker is not paid during an illness or dealing with a major life upheaval like a birth or bereavement.  

“These new measures give greater protections for working people that get ill, and create capacity to handle unpredictable moments when they need it the most. Reducing stress and anxiety for staff can also help support good relationships with employers and support business growth.”

M Core invest almost £5m in the regeneration of The Centre, Livingston

RANKED THE MOST ATTRACTIVE SHOPPING CENTRE IN SCOTLAND

M Core, owners of The Centre, Livingston invests almost £5m on the regeneration of the shopping centre, which includes launching a new leisure hub later this year and a new sustainability programme which includes reusing pallets for planters and bug hotels.

Since acquiring The Centre, Livingston less than two years ago, M Core has delivered a comprehensive ‘repositioning’ of the shopping centre, which is one of Scotland’s largest retail destinations, spanning 1m sq. ft. and attracting 15.4m visitors a year.

The regeneration programme has focused on strengthening its retail, leisure and social offer while ensuring long-term sustainability for the local community.

In 2025 the shopping centre welcomed various new brands, including Wingstop, a 90-seater Starbucks, Sostrene Grene, MINISO and Flying Tiger, with more new openings in the pipeline this year and expansions, including JD Sports, which will be tripling in size and launching in the spring.

Sustainability has been central to the regeneration programme which includes replacing a section of the roof using a 100% recyclable membrane and improved recycling systems, which have all contributed to lower consumption and reduced carbon emissions. 

Further improvements are underway with the phased replacement of the Building Management System which will monitor and control all lights, heating and cooling systems more effectively to help reduce its carbon footprint. Delivery pallets have also been recycled to build planters and bug hotels.

In recognition of the significant transformation at The Centre, Livingston, the company, which is one of Europe’s leading property collectives, has been named a finalist in the Regeneration Project of the Year category at the 13th Scottish Property Awards, which takes place in Glasgow next month.

M Core has also been announced as the leading Investment Manager in Scotland in the Going Shopping 2026 report by Trevor Wood Associates, with The Centre, Livingston ranked the most attractive shopping centre in Scotland.

Simon Eatough, Director at LCP, part of M Core and Asset Manager to The Centre, Livingston said: “Our regeneration programme is well under way at The Centre, Livingston with even more exciting plans afoot.

“Being recognised for our efforts to revitalise the shopping centre is a great achievement for everyone who has been involved in the regeneration programme.

“Our work at The Centre, Livingston is grounded in long-term investment, active management and close collaboration with our partners and community. 

“We’re very proud of the progress achieved so far and remain committed to ensuring The Centre, Livingston continues to thrive as a retail, dining and leisure destination for West Lothian and beyond.”

Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East divisions deliver £131.9m boost to local economy

572 new energy-efficient homes brought to market in East Scotland, supporting almost 2,000 jobs across the region

Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, part of the UK’s leading housebuilder Barratt Redrow, have injected £131.9m in the Scottish economy for the year ending 29 June 2025 through its East Scotland Division, reinforcing their role as key contributors to economic growth, housing delivery and employment across the country.

The premium housebuilders operate across the north, east and west of the country. Through their East Scotland Division alone, a total of 572 new homes were brought to market, including 45 affordable homes.

Underlining their commitment to sustainability, 99% of all homes achieved an EPC rating of A or B. Every home was also built with access to renewable energy sources such as solar thermal panels, solar PV and air-source heat pumps.

With 90% of materials manufactured or assembled in the UK, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes directly and indirectly supported 1,887 jobs across its East Divisions, its sub-contractors and suppliers. They also generated an estimated £111.6 million in total spend with suppliers and sub-contractors.

The two businesses continue to create high quality communities in some of Scotland’s most scenic and popular locations, from West Craigs in Edinburgh to St Andrews in Fife.

Together, Barratt Homes East and David Wilson Homes East made £4.6m in local contributions, creating 207 new school places in communities and generating more than £22.4 million in tax revenues for reinvestment across the region.

Their approach to purposeful building focuses on creating long-term value through sustainable, inclusive communities. Affordable homes are sold at an average of 36% below equivalent private market prices, helping more people access high-quality, energy-efficient housing.

Environmental commitment remains central to delivery, with eight hectares of green space created through public open spaces and private gardens in East Scotland alongside the installation of 133 electric vehicle charging points. They also supported 18 graduates, apprentices and trainees through its various skills programmes.

Andrew Morrison, Managing Director, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes East Scotland, said: “At Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes our purpose is to create strong communities where sustainable living is a reality for everyone. In 2025, we continued to deliver against this commitment, making a meaningful contribution to the Scottish economy, local communities and businesses.

“It is particularly encouraging to see the growth in skills and employment opportunities, and we remain firmly committed to investing in the future of our young people and our industry.

“Scotland continues to face a significant housing challenge. While we are proud of the difference we have made in delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes so far, we recognise that there is still much more to do to ensure everyone can access housing that meets the needs of modern living.

“Looking ahead, 2026 will be a landmark year for Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes as we begin construction on significant developments like Lingerwood in Midlothian. Across all our projects, our commitment to people, places and nature will remain at the heart of everything we do.”

Other key findings from Barratt Homes East and David Wilson Homes East Scotland 2025 socio-economic report include:

  • £111.6 million total spend with 326 sub-contractor companies and 294 supplier companies.
  • £15.1 million invested in physical works benefiting local communities, including highways, environmental improvements, affordable housing and community facilities.
  • £16.3 million annual spending in local shops and services by residents of new homes, supporting 157 retail and service-related jobs.
  • £62,000 in charitable donations made directly or via the Barratt Redrow Foundation and 1,058 hours of employee volunteering.
  • £74.6 million of land approved for future investment.
  • 128 nature interventions installed, including integrated nesting bricks, bat boxes, and the creation of hedgehog highway routes.

The assessment was carried out by independent experts who analysed socio-economic impacts through the delivery chain for new housing based upon Barratt Redrow datasets, published research and national statistics.

For more information about Barratt Homes and  David Wilson Homes, please visit: www.barratthomes.co.uk/ and https://www.dwh.co.uk/

Letters: Volunteer in 2026 with NSPCC

Dear Editor, 

As we step into 2026, many people will be thinking about the positive changes they’d like to make in the year ahead. For anyone looking to give back to their community, volunteering with the NSPCC is a meaningful way to support children and young people across Scotland. 

One of the ways to support children is by becoming a Childline counsellor. Our Childline bases in Aberdeen and Glasgow are always looking for new volunteers to support children and young people through our phone and online services.

With a child contacting Childline every 45 seconds, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, volunteers play a vital role. 

Another rewarding opportunity is with our Schools Service. Volunteers deliver our Speak out, Stay safe workshops in primary schools, helping children understand their right to be safe, recognise the signs of abuse, and know who they can turn to for support. Last year, the programme reached more than 60,000 across Scotland, and in 2026 we hope to reach even more. 

Full training is provided, and visits can be arranged around work or family commitments. Every shift is different, and volunteers often tell us that the enthusiasm and curiosity of the children they meet is what makes the role so special. 

If this sounds like something for you, visit the NSPCC website to find out more. 

Yours sincerely, 

Adeniyi Alade 

NSPCC Scotland Service Head Helplines 

Scottish Building Society & Edinburgh Rugby celebrate 1,000 children tackling maths

‘Tackle Maths’ a joint programme between Scottish Building Society and Edinburgh Rugby has now been delivered to over 1,000 children, helping to develop maths skills and get more pupils active.

Launched just over two years, the programme helps pupils aged between eight and 12 gain practical maths skills by using rugby and real-life examples to show how the subject factors into all elements of everyday life.

The milestone was reached as students from Broughton Primary School in Leith attended Hive Stadium to take part.

Seeing students apply maths outside of the classroom, from measuring the length of a rugby pitch, to working out the capacity of a stadium and estimating the height of the posts, the programme is designed to encourage pupils to think about maths lessons in a different way.

As well as gaining practical guidance, Tackle Maths sessions see students explore the world of rugby also, being treated to tours of Hive Stadium, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, the Scotland Team dressing room and the Scottish Rugby shop as part of the programme.

Paul Denton, chief executive, Scottish Building Society said: “When we started Tackle Maths our aim was to help at least 175 children get to grips with maths.

“Just over two years later it is incredible to have massively surpassed this, providing a thousand children across the country with a practical learning environment which shows why maths is important to their everyday lives.

“As a mutual organisation giving back to communities is incredibly important to us and this programme is a fantastic way of inspiring kids to think differently about learning.”

Douglas Struth, managing director, Edinburgh Rugby said: “Edinburgh Rugby is at its heart a community rugby club. That’s why working in partnership with Scottish Building Society to deliver this programme makes perfect sense.

“This programme is all about getting kids out of the classroom and learning in a practical manner. Having helped 1,000 children across the country to get excited about maths, we’re pleased to say it’s worked to great effect and look forward to supporting many more in the future.”

Melanie Bertram, a teacher from Broughton Primary said: “For many children, learning comes easier when they’re able to apply lessons in a real-life situation and a fun environment.

“Tackle Maths is perfect in this regard, giving them an experience which showcases how important maths is.

“A huge thank you to Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish Building Society for working with us to launch a brilliant and educational initiative.”

For more information, visit: https://www.scottishbs.co.uk/