FM to attend Haiti match at the invitation of FIFA
The World Cup is an opportunity to showcase what Scotland has to offer as a place to live, work, study, do business and visit, First Minister John Swinney has said.
The First Minister will be in Boston to undertake a series of engagements with business leaders and investors, before joining celebrations to mark Scotland’s men’s national football team’s return to the World Cup, ahead of the match on Saturday.
Mr Swinney will attend the Scotland v Haiti game at the invitation of FIFA, alongside a Scottish Football Association delegation.
A new US Export Plan has also been published to provide guidance for Scottish businesses to navigate US regulations, market competition and trade barriers, with five priority states offering the best potential for growing sales of Scotland’s eight key export sectors.
First Minister John Swinney said: “To our men’s national team, I know I speak for everyone when I say Scotland could not be prouder and the country is right behind you this weekend, and this summer.
“This is a profound moment of national joy. Our long awaited, and much celebrated, return to the World Cup is an opportunity to showcase what Scotland has to offer as a place to live, work, study, do business and visit.
“While I am in the United States, I will be meeting with business leaders and investors to strengthen existing ties and help foster new opportunities to secure further international investment into Scotland.
“Our new US Export plan will also make it easier for Scottish businesses to navigate the US market, setting out where the right customers are, what they are looking for and how to reach them.
“As we head into this weekend, I want to remind everyone to enjoy themselves responsibly and safely. For those lucky enough to travel to the US, please remember to check and follow FCDO advice.
“Come on Scotland. The world is watching. Let’s make history!”
Scotland’s first digital, 360° ‘Kick & Play’ football cube, which is used by FC Bayern Munich as an immersive experience at FC Bayern World has arrived in the country for the first time at The Centre, Livingston (today, 12th June), in time for the big game in the World Cup this Sunday, 14th June.
The 16 square metre, hi-tech, skills.lab Cube, featuring interactive LED walls, which is part of the shopping centre’s ‘Kick & Play – Summer of Football’ events programme, is designed to give visitors of all ages the chance to put their skills to the test and enjoy a free immersive football experience.
Pic Greg Macvean 12/06/2026
The Centre, Livingston – SCOTLAND’S ONLY DIGITAL 360° FOOTBALL CUBE ARRIVES AT THE CENTRE, LIVINGSTON IN TIME FOR THE COUNTRY’S FIRST WORLD CUP GAME ON SUNDAY 14TH JUNE
The skills.lab Cube, which has permanent residency in the Bayern Munich Superstore and previously at the FIFA Museum in Zurich, and also a big hit in fan zones in Germany during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament, is operated with a touch screen where players can switch between six pre-set, fun and challenging games.
These include Chase Next and Stroop, with moving, glowing targets, where the aim is to test technical and cognitive skills like passing accuracy, ball control and reaction time in short, high-intensity rounds and get the highest score, which is recorded using laser tracking technology, which provides visual and audio feedback.
It will remain in situ next to Burger King until the 30th July.
The Centre, Livingston, which has been kitted out with hanging football flags covering every nation taking part in the World Cup, will also be running lots of football-related arts and crafts during the weekends in July.
These range from designing a football strip and decorating a football money bank to making keyrings, medals and flags, which are free with donations optional for The Centre, Livingston’s charity partner, Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS), which provides palliative care, respite, and family support to babies, children, and young people with life-shortening conditions.
A ‘Guess the Number of Footballs’ competition, located in a display next to schuh, is also running until the 24th July, where shoppers can enter using a QR code, which directs them to the shopping centre website, to take part. Prizes include Gift Cards from various retailers including New Look and Aerial Adventures.
Lewis O’Connor from Bonnyrigg, who was visiting The Centre, Livingston with his three children and wife and took time out to enjoy a kick about with the family, said: “The football cube is a great idea which our kids really enjoyed.
“We are big Scotland fans and heading out to Miami soon to see Scotland play Brazil, which has been a life-long dream of mine, and feels even more extra special that I’m taking my son who loves his football.”
Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston said: “Our 360°, digital football skills.lab Cube is a great way for fans to put their football skills to the test during the World Cup tournament.
“The games are great fun and provide the perfect opportunity for everyone taking part to show off their skills and get instant feedback on all their drills, passing power and goal scoring.”
For more information check out The Centre, Livingston social channels, @shopthecentre, and the website, www.thecentrelivingston.com, for competition Terms & Conditions.
Investments to build on the excitement of the World Cup
Scotland men’s team return to the World Cup is an opportunity to ‘inspire a generation of sporting talent’, First Minister John Swinney has said.
Ahead of Scotland taking on Haiti in Boston, the team’s first World Cup finals game since 1998, the First Minister has announced the creation of a World Cup Fund.
Designed in partnership with the Scottish Football Association (SFA), £500,000 of Scottish Government funding will be invested in the development of youth programmes for boys and girls.
The First Minister has also announced £275,000 for charity Street Soccer Scotland to expand its free football and wellbeing sessions. The funding will help support volunteering and coaching opportunities for young people and fund housing assistance, mental health provision, food support and employability services for adults.
Ahead of joining Scotland fans at the FIFA Fan Festival in Boston ahead of the game, Mr Swinney said: “As Scotland takes centre stage at the World Cup, I’ll be joining the Tartan Army to show Boston and the world, the whole of Scotland will be cheering the team on. The excitement around the World Cup demonstrates the strength of football – at home and in Boston, people are celebrating and showing off the very best of Scotland.
“This is a historic moment and our return to the World Cup is an opportunity to inspire a generation of sporting talent. To nurture this talent, I am announcing a £500,000 World Cup Fund to support young boys and girls follow their sporting dreams. I am also pleased to announce funding in support of the work delivered across the country by Street Soccer Scotland.
“These programmes, alongside our £20 million Summer of Sport celebrations, will help create more sporting opportunities for young people across Scotland.”
SFA Chief Executive, Ian Maxwell, said: “Scotland’s return to the World Cup stage has undoubtedly inspired the nation – from grassroots to the senior game and across society in general.
“We regularly reference the power of football to impact the game and the country and our hope is to use this summer as a springboard to progress in a number of areas.
“We welcome the Scottish Government’s investment, which will undoubtedly boost efforts to produce the next generation of internationals, who will hopefully pick up the baton and take us to more tournaments in the future.”
Street Soccer Scotland Chief Executive David Duke said: “We welcome this support from the Scottish Government. The Street Soccer Network Programme was created on the principle that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, should have access to connection, opportunity and a sense of belonging, using the power of football.
“This investment will enable us to continue that support and reach even more communities across Scotland.
“A significant focus of the network programme is on smaller towns and rural areas, where access to services can be limited and individuals often face additional barriers. This funding allows us to provide consistent, trusted support in places where it is needed most, ensuring that people are not left behind because of where they live.”
Community change-makers up and down the country are being celebrated in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List today, with 1182 recipients awarded from every part of the UK.
Community change-makers up and down the country are being celebrated in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List today, with 1182 recipients awarded from every part of the UK.
These recipients have contributed significantly to their communities, going above and beyond in delivering positive change to benefit others.
Their involvement in their local areas includes fostering children in need, alleviating hygiene poverty and fundraising to improve services for special educational needs.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: Across the UK, people are quietly changing lives and strengthening their communities. This Honours List is a chance to recognise them.
“Their dedication shows how lasting change is built – through compassion, resilience and a commitment to others.
It speaks to the decent, hopeful country we are proud to be, and on behalf of the whole nation, I want to say thank you.”
Recipients being honoured today include Dame Helen Mirren and Sir Donald McCullin who are being made Members of the Order of the Companion of Honour. Professor Parveen Kumar receives a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire for services to Global Medical Education and Health.
Charlotte Tilbury receives a CBE for her services to the Beauty and Cosmetics Industry and Julius O’Riordan (Judge Jules) is awarded an MBE for services to Music, to Entertainment Law and to Young People.
The oldest recipient on the List is Pauline Hough, who at 101 years old receives a BEM for services to theatre and to the community in Nantwich.
At 20 years old, Michelle Agyemang is the youngest recipient, who is one of the Euros winning Lionesses on the list. She is receiving her MBE for services to Association Football, alongside her teammates Jess Carter, Hannah Hampton, Lauren James, Chloe Kelly and Alessia Russo.
It is also very encouraging to see that this year there is an increased number of recipients from an ethnic minority background at 11.5%, together with an increased representation of those with disabilities at 15.6%.
Arts
Patrick Doyle is being awarded an OBE for his services to Film and actor and director Dexter Fletcher also receives an OBE for services to Film and Television.
Sports
Kevin Sinfield is being awarded with a Knighthood for services to Rugby League, Rugby Union and the MND Community. Recently retired England Rugby Union player Emily Scarratt, golfer Luke Donald and snooker player Shaun Murphy all receive OBEs.
Business
Diana Sarah Brightmore-Armour is being awarded an CBE for services to Women and Diversity in Financial Services. Elizabeth Prince is receiving an MBE for services to the Games Industry and to Diversity.
Entertainment
DJ and broadcaster Carl Cox receives an OBE, Lisa Riley is being awarded an MBE for services to Drama and to Charity and Laszlo Endresz received a BEM for services to Circus Entertainment in the North West.
71 people have received awards in this year’s Overseas and International Birthday Honours List, recognising exceptional service to the UK overseas and internationally. This List reflects contributions across a broad range of fields. The British nationals recognised have directly benefited the UK and helped to strengthen the UK’s global reputation and support communities worldwide. Those being honoured on the Overseas List include Philip Ambler for services to Eye Health in Myanmar and Jane Grimshaw for services to the Education of Disadvantaged Children in India.
Anyone can nominate someone for an honour for free.
If you know someone who has achieved fantastic things worthy of recognition, go to https://www.gov.uk/honours to find out more about how you can put them forward.
First Minister congratulates Scotland’s Honour recipients
First Minister John Swinney has paid tribute to Scotland’s recipients in The King’s Birthday Honours list.
This year’s awards celebrate individuals making exceptional contributions to public life or their community in keeping with the theme of Community change makers.
Director of Health Data Research UK, Vice Principal of Data Science at the University of Edinburgh, and President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, Professor Andrew Morris, receives a knighthood for services to UK Public Health and Patient Care.
Professor Lucina Hackman, Chair of Forensic Anthropology at the University of Dundee, has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for services to Forensic Anthropology and Disaster Victim Identification.
Those being awarded a CBE include Ann Matheson who has held various significant positions in the field of librarianship and was until recently the Deputy Keeper of the National Library of Scotland. She receives her award for services to Literature and Culture. Cultural leader, Allison Gardner, former Chief Executive of Glasgow Film and Director of Glasgow Film Festival, is recognised for her service to film and cinema in Scotland.
Among those receiving an OBE include John Fraser McLeish, Chief Executive at The Gordon Highlanders Museum for services to heritage in Aberdeen. Chairman of J & G Grant whisky, John Grant, for services to the Scotch Whisky Industry and charity. Dr Rashmi Mantri, the founder and Director of the British Youth International College (BYITC), for services to maths education and Allan Taylor, for services to Renewable Energy.
Those receiving MBEs include Scottish DJ and charity campaigner George Bowie,best known for his Radio Clyde breakfast show, Constance McCready, founder of Covid-19 Families Scotland, for services to bereavement support; and Mary Anne Stewart for the work she has done to help alleviate food poverty in Campbeltown and the surrounding area during her decade as Chair of the Kintyre Food Bank.
Among those honoured with a BEM include the inspirational founder of mental health charity LD Let’s Talk, Derek Reid, who is the driving force behind a suicide awareness campaign which has saved many lives and Donna Louise Armstrong, for services to Veterans and the community of Renfrewshire.
The King’s Police Medal has been awarded to the following members of Police Scotland. Michelle Webster, Management Support Sergeant, Rhona Meikle, Police Sergeant, and Sarah Taylor, Detective Chief Superintendent.
The King’s Fire Service Medal is awarded to Chris Getty, Area Commander, and Ian Nicolson, On Call Support Watch Commander, from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
Colin Brown a paramedic with the Scottish Ambulance Service has been awarded The King’s Ambulance Service Medal.
The First Minister said: “I would like to personally congratulate and thank each of this year’s recipients of The King’s Birthday Honours. From scientists and educators to volunteers and charity heroes, they have each been recognised for their outstanding contributions to their communities, sectors and public life in Scotland.
“The recipients of The King’s Police, Fire and Ambulance Service Medals demonstrate lives dedicated to keeping others safe and supporting communities. I sincerely thank them for their service and commitment.”
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander has congratulated all those Scots recognised in His Majesty’s Birthday Honours list.
Paying tribute to the breadth of individuals honoured, from sporting legends to community volunteers, Mr Alexander said: I am delighted to congratulate all those Scots who have been recognised in His Majesty’s Birthday Honours.
“With Scotland qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in decades, it is particularly fitting that Scottish footballing legend Lou Macari has been recognised by His Majesty. Macari won 24 caps for Scotland, including in the doomed 1978 Argentina campaign – we all hope for a better result this time.
“Scotland’s vibrant education, science and energy sectors are well represented. I’m particularly pleased to see Scotland’s renewables and nuclear energy expertise recognised – as our nation leads our drive to clean power.
“The list is a testament to the extraordinary difference that ordinary people make in their communities every day. It recognises those who give so much of themselves in service to others.
“Scotland is fortunate to have so many remarkable people working quietly and tirelessly to make it a better place, and it is right that we take this moment to celebrate them.”
Police Scotland has released a CCTV image of a man who they believe may be able to assist them with their enquires into a serious assault on Lower Granton Road, Edinburgh.
The incident happened around 4.30pm on Saturday, 16 May, 2026. The man is described as white, 6ft in height, of heavy build, aged 40-50 years-old and bald.
Detective Sergeant Keith Morrison said: “We would ask the man in the image, or anyone who recognises him, to contact us as soon as possible.”
Anyone who has information that may assist with this investigation is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 2173 of Saturday, 16 May, 2026. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Leading charity Poppyscotland is calling for volunteers to help man collection stations during Armed Forces Week in Edinburgh later this month.
Volunteers are being sought at both Waverley and Haymarket train stations in the city centre on Saturday, 27th June and Sunday 28th June, as well as at the Armed Forces Day parade at St Andrew Square on Saturday, 27th June.
Armed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets. It marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, beginning on Monday 22nd June, when the public show their appreciation for the Armed Forces community.
Poppyscotland requires volunteer collectors during Armed Forces Week to allow the charity to continue the valuable work they do in helping countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces.
There are roles that suit a range of interests and experiences, and no matter how much time you can spare, you will make a difference.
Volunteers will be ably looked after, supported and trained by dedicated Poppyscotland staff. But, most importantly, the chance to make a real difference is there for the taking.
Sean Walsh has been volunteering with Poppyscotland for six years. The 20 year old said: “I volunteer at various events throughout the year, including at Armed Forces Day. Sometimes I can manage full days and other times I sign up for a couple of hours at a time due to my busy shift patterns at work.
“I know that even a few hours can make a real difference.
“I really enjoy my volunteering with Poppyscotland, you definitely feel part of something bigger!
“It’s a very straightforward process too – I sign up online, where I get all the information I need.”
Tracy Gilbert, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has called on the Israeli government to let aid flow freely into Gaza after travelling to Jordan this week with an International Development Committee delegation to meet senior representatives of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and discuss the urgent need to expand humanitarian access into Gaza.
During the visit, Gilbert received briefings on the humanitarian situation and the barriers to aid delivery. UNRWA officials warned that restrictions on aid deliveries are contributing to severe shortages of food, clean water, medical supplies and shelter.
The delegation visited the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO), which operates a warehouse storing humanitarian aid from a range of organisations, including the UK Government and Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP). There, Gilbert saw large quantities of food, baby formula and medical supplies, including prosthetics, ready for delivery to Gaza, but was told that much of the aid remains unable to reach those in need.
The delegation visit came on the same week that the UK Foreign Secretary, Rt Hon. Yvette Cooper MP, told the House of Commons that less than half of the aid promised in the 20-Point Peace Place is entering Gaza.
In the House of Commons, she said: “There are families without shelter and a public health crisis, with rodent infestations and communicable disease, and we are currently at barely half the level of the 4,200 trucks a week promised in the 20-point plan.”
Tracy Gilbert MP said:“Gaza is facing catastrophic conditions, and the international community has a responsibility to ensure that relief reaches those who need it most. Sadly, after briefings on the ground in Jordan this week it only served to reinforce my concerns about the lack of access and progress made since the peace plan had been agreed.
“The aid is there; however, it is not being made available. I have seen hundreds of boxes of baby formula and medication sitting in warehouses while people, just a few miles away, are in desperate need. No prosthetics have entered Gaza in the past year, despite thousands of people in need, with supplies ready to go.
“Among the supplies stored in the warehouses was aid funded directly by the UK Government, as well as assistance provided by UK charities through the generous donations of people across Edinburgh and the wider UK.”
Although a ceasefire agreement came into effect in October 2025, humanitarian organisations continue to warn that severe restrictions on aid and medical supplies mean many Palestinians in Gaza remain unable to access the support they urgently need.
Ms Gilbert added: “Eight months on from the Gaza Peace Plan there has been little improvement for people struggling to survive in Gaza. I am calling on the Israeli government to end the delays and allow the vital aid sitting on its borders to flow freely into Gaza.”
The Foreign Secretary’s Statement to the House of Commons on Tuesday 9th June can be found here:
Funding boost for charity fundraiser’s World Cup campaign
A Scotland fan who is walking across the US to raise funds for charity ahead of the World Cup has been backed by First Minister John Swinney with support from the Scottish Government.
Craig Ferguson’s ‘Tartan Trek’ is taking him over 3,200 miles across the United States to raise money for Scottish Action on Mental Health (SAMH). He hopes to raise £1 million in time for the Scotland men’s team’s opening match against Haiti on Saturday.
The First Minister will meet Craig in Boston as he joins his fellow Scotland fans upon completing his challenge. In recognition of his efforts, the First Minister has pledged £400,000 from the government to help him reach his £1 million target.
The First Minister said: “I met Craig before he headed out to Los Angeles to begin his mammoth trek across the United States and I was struck by his tenacity, ingenuity and genuine passion – both as a Scotland fan and a campaigner for mental health.
“I have been hugely impressed by Craig’s inspirational campaign to raise funds for SAMH, one of Scotland’s leading mental health charities. The work such charities do across the country is both life-changing and live-saving, and this funding will help SAMH to continue that important work – including to deliver their new drop-in mental health centres, which my government is keen to support.
“The Tartan Army are such a wonderful advert for Scotland, and I am proud that we have people like Craig representing our country in America as our men’s national team take to the stage for their first World Cup finals in almost thirty years.”
Chief Executive of Scottish Action on Mental Health (SAMH) Billy Watson said: “Craig’s efforts to raise awareness of mental health problems and money for SAMH have been absolutely extraordinary.
“He is a football fan, a member of the Tartan Army, who decided he could help and has quite literally come down the road in the most spectacular fashion.
“We’re hugely grateful to Craig, and to the First Minister and the Scottish Government for their support for Craig and SAMH, and we look forward to working with them to roll out The Nook across Scotland.”
Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho branch is calling on members of the community to become volunteers and help support its mission of providing free canal cruising for people with additional needs including those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, older adults, or experiencing social isolation.
For decades, the charity has brought enjoyment, companionship, and unforgettable experiences to thousands of passengers from across central Scotland and as far north as Dundee to the Borders. To continue delivering these valuable services, the Trust is seeking enthusiastic new volunteers to join its dedicated Ratho team.
Volunteering opportunities are available both on board and ashore. Whether assisting passengers during cruises, helping with boat operations, supporting fundraising activities, or providing administrative assistance, every volunteer plays an important role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for guests.
No previous boating experience is required, as full training and ongoing support are provided. The charity welcomes people from all backgrounds who are willing to give a little of their time to make a difference in the lives of others.
Volunteering with Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho branch offers many personal benefits. Volunteers can develop new skills, gain valuable experience, meet new people, and become part of a friendly and supportive team. Many volunteers also find the role highly rewarding, knowing that their contribution helps provide opportunities and experiences that many passengers would otherwise be unable to enjoy.
As demand for cruises continues to grow, the need for additional volunteers has never been greater. By joining Seagull Trust Cruises, volunteers can help ensure that vulnerable and isolated individuals continue to enjoy access to safe, inclusive, and memorable days on Scotland’s waterways.
Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering opportunities is encouraged to get in touch with Seagull Trust Cruises. A few hours of your time could make a lasting difference to someone else’s life while providing a rewarding and enjoyable experience for you.
Maternal and child health expert Professor Christine McCourt is to lead a review into improving maternity services across Scotland.
Health Secretary Angela Constance announced the appointment in an update to Parliament.
Professor McCourt will examine how maternity services can better meet women’s needs across the country, including how care is provided in rural and island areas. This will include specific review of services in Caithness, Elgin and Wigtownshire.
The review will also address the higher maternal mortality rates of Black and Asian women, informed directly by the voices of Black and Asian women.
Professor McCourt will review how NHS boards engage meaningfully with their communities on decisions they make about maternity services.
The full scope and terms of reference will be published by the Chair and is expected to focus on the views and experiences of women, their families and staff.
Ms Constance said: “Every woman in Scotland deserves safe, compassionate and high-quality maternity care, regardless of where she lives.
“I am pleased Professor McCourt will lead our review. She will consult with clinical experts and engage with families and patient groups, including those in rural and island areas such as Caithness, Elgin and Wigtownshire.
“This independent review fulfils a commitment we made for our first 100 days in government. It will build on improvements already being made in the NHS, including the maternity standards launched earlier this year. It will be carried out at pace and completed within nine months.
“I am clear this review will deliver real and tangible change for women and their families.”
Professor McCourt said: “Positive maternity experiences and outcomes are vital for our health and wellbeing.
“I look forward to listening and learning from families and communities across Scotland, as well as from those who provide dedicated care in our NHS.
“This will help draw out lessons for maternity and neonatal services and contribute to ensuring the best possible care for all.”
