If they want, MPs can skip Parliament, ignore their constituents, and still keep their jobs until the next election.
They cannot be removed for neglecting their duties because they have no official job description.
We’re calling for a job description for MPs to help set enforceable minimum standards:
Patients at all GP practices in Scotland are benefiting from a digital dermatology service designed to reduce waiting times and improve outcomes.
Since the national rollout in September, GPs have referred more than 12,000 patients. It is estimated that up to 130,000 dermatology referrals a year could be made this way, reducing demand on dermatology waiting lists by up to 50%.
The national rollout has been funded by £1.8 million from the Scottish Government through the Accelerated National Innovation Adoption (ANIA) initiative.
GPs can now securely send images of a patient’s skin condition to dermatology specialists for analysis using a mobile device. An initial assessment of the condition is done digitally, and patients are then offered a face-to-face appointment, directed to a more suitable service, or given advice on managing their condition.
Around half of annual dermatology referrals are for suspected skin cancer, and the new service means that cancer can be ruled in or out more quickly – providing either earlier relief or diagnosis for patients.
Early melanoma diagnosis is vital for patient outcomes. At stage one, almost all patients live five years or more, compared to only 50% at stage four.
Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “Digital dermatology is a fantastic example of how innovation is improving access to healthcare and delivering our Programme for Government commitments.
“It provides faster reassurance for patients who do not have cancer and earlier diagnosis for those who do, potentially leading to better treatment options and outcomes.
“I want to thank everyone who has worked hard to deliver this successful national rollout as we continue to harness technology to reform our NHS for the future.”
Dr Fiona Macdonald, Consultant Dermatologist and Clinical Lead for Dermatology at the Centre for Sustainable Delivery said: “Digital dermatology helps dermatologists carry out robust referral triage without the patient being present, enabling them to prioritise the most urgent referrals.
“Referrals with images also allow the option to offer advice and/or a diagnosis to colleagues in primary care at the point of referral rather than patients having to wait for an appointment.
“The new system will help support the referral process where appropriate, and patients will still have the choice of whether to include an image. If they choose not to then the referral will be processed efficiently in the usual way.”
Cancer Support UK has launched the 2026 Create Your Dream Bestie competition, inviting children receiving treatment for cancer to design their very own imaginary best friend – with the winning creation being brought to life as a real cuddly toy by Warmies® – famed for their cuddly toys and wellness products, which can be microwaved for warmth and comfort.
Now in its second year, the national competition encourages children in hospital to dream big, be creative, and let their imaginations soar, despite going through the toughest of times. The initiative follows the success of 11-year-old Spencer Codling (pictured above), winner of the 2025 competition and designer of the hugely popular Bat Cat toy, produced and sold by Warmies in support of Cancer Support UK.
Giving children moments of joy, hope and distraction
For many children undergoing cancer treatment, art and storytelling offer precious moments of escape. Spencer’s mum, Karen Codling, said the competition was “a lifeline of joy” during her son’s treatment.
“Taking part in the competition gave Spencer something positive to focus on during each stage of his treatment,” Karen said. “It distracted him from the difficult days, gave him hope, and gave us something to look forward to together. Seeing Bat Cat come to life was absolutely magical.”
Following the success of Bat Cat, which has sparked messages of support nationwide – Spencer himself shared a message for other children considering entering this year’s competition:
“I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who bought a Bat Cat teddy in support of me and Cancer Support UK,” said Spencer, who wanted to create a superhero teddy, which children could cuddle when having treatment to make them feel better.
“Your kindness and generosity made our hearts smile! Every purchase puts a HUGE smile on my face and helped Cancer Support UK do their amazing work.
Encouraging creativity during treatment
The 2026 competition invites children undergoing cancer treatment in hospitals across the UK to create and submit drawings of their “Dream Bestie” – a companion who makes them feel brave, happy, safe or magical.
Mark Guymer, CEO of Cancer Support UK, said: “Every day, we meet children who show extraordinary bravery while facing cancer. The Create Your Dream Bestie competition gives them a chance to escape into creativity, to imagine someone who brings comfort and to see that imagination celebrated.
“This competition is about joy, hope and believing that dreams can come true, even in the hardest times. Last year Spencer inspired us all with Bat Cat, plus we received some amazing designs from children across the UK. Now we can’t wait to see what children create for the 2026 competition.
“Entry forms are available to download from the Cancer Support UK website. In addition, forms will be available from all major cancer treatment centres in the UK.
“We really hope people will be inspired to buy one of the remaining limited edition Bat Cats – it’s a lovely comforting toy that anyone can appreciate.”
Warmies® bring the magic to life
Warmies®, known for their heatable soft toys designed to provide comfort and calm, will once again manufacture the winning design as a limited-edition cuddly toy – to be sold in support of Cancer Support UK’s work with people of all ages who are affected by cancer.
David Tweedale, CEO at Warmies®, said: “Partnering with Cancer Support UK on this competition is one of the highlights of our year. Seeing the joy on Spencer’s face when Bat Cat was created was unforgettable and we’re honoured to bring another child’s Dream Bestie to life in 2026.
“Warmies toys are all about warmth, comfort and soothing moments, and this competition brings those values to children who truly deserve them.”
How to enter
Children currently receiving cancer treatment, or their families on their behalf, can find more information about the competition and download an entry form via:
https://cancersupportuk.org/dream-bestie-competition-2026/
Entries close: 31 January 2026
The winning Dream Bestie will be professionally designed, manufactured and released by Warmies in 2026, with proceeds supporting Cancer Support UK’s services people living with and beyond cancer.
Primary cancer treatment centres in the UK
Entry forms for the competition will be available at these hospitals (as well as online)
Commenting on the Employment Rights Act becoming law (Thursday), TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “This is a landmark day for millions of workers.
“The Employment Rights Act represents the biggest upgrade in workers’ rights in a generation.
“It will deliver common sense changes like banning exploitative zero hours contracts, protecting workers from harassment and sick pay for all – and so much more. These are hard-won rights that the union movement and workers have long campaigned for.
“For too long, we have lagged behind our European counterparts on workers’ rights. This legislation takes us closer to the mainstream.
“We are finally closing the door on the broken status quo defined by insecurity, poor pay and weak rights.
“It’s now vital the government finishes the job – ensuring workers feel the benefits of all these new protections as soon as possible. That means watertight secondary legislation, which delivers new rights fully and quickly.”
The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) has welcomed the new Employment Rights Act, describing it as a significant opportunity for employers and staff to work together to help businesses thrive and improve working lives.
The Act, which received Royal Assent on Thursday, will update British employment law and includes the following changes:
· protection from unfair dismissal will become a right after 6 months of being in a job instead of two years
· new rules to limit “fire and rehire” practices
· the right to guaranteed hours for workers on zero hours contracts
· statutory sick pay will be paid from the first day of illness
· whistleblowing protection for disclosing sexual harassment at work
· proactive duty on employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment and obligations to prevent employees from 3rd party harassment
· paternity leave will become a day one right instead of needing to work for an employer for 26 weeks
· stronger protections against dismissal for pregnant workers and those returning from maternity leave
· new rules around trade unions’ right to access workplaces to meet and support workers, and simplified rules for trade unions to negotiate with employers over pay and conditions
Niall Mackenzie, Acas Chief Executive, said: “This is a once-in-a-generation change to employment law in Britain and an opportunity for employers and workers to work together to bring all workplace relations up to the standard of current best practice, and help businesses thrive and improve working lives.
“Acas will be updating its training and advice as the new laws are implemented. We stand ready to help employers, workers and their trade unions work together to make the most of the opportunity presented by these reforms to build better, healthier and more productive workplaces.”
Acas will play a crucial role in supporting the Act’s implementation, through:
· developing comprehensive advice on all aspects of the new legislation as they take effect
· producing statutory Codes of Practice to ensure employers and workers understand their legal obligations and good working practices
· providing a range of training and support, including webinars, workshops and resources
· continuing to provide expert, impartial conflict resolution through its conciliation and mediation services
Acas is working with the Department for Business and Trade, as well as other partners to provide advice and help employers and employees prepare for the changes.
Employers and workers seeking information can visit www.acas.org.uk.
Around 3,000 more parent carers who look after disabled or seriously ill children will be able to take a break from their caring routine thanks to increased investment.
They will receive cash grants to help finance a short break, like a day out or time away with their loved ones, after an additional £1.1 million was given to Family Fund, a charity supporting parents who look after disabled and seriously ill children.
Taking the total number of short breaks supported by the Scottish Government up to more than 8,500 in 2025-2026, the cash grants will go to those who originally applied for financial assistance but were unsuccessful due to high demand.
Recognising their selflessness over the festive period and throughout the year, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Unpaid carers are the unsung heroes of so many people’s lives. They go above and beyond to provide comfort and dignity for thousands of people, and they do so with pride.
“But it can also be a demanding and tiring responsibility. I am proud that we are supporting more parent carers to look after themselves, helping them to reset with a short break away from the day-to-day routine of caring.
“They show dedication, love and support, not just over the festive period, but every single day. They have my utmost respect and gratitude for the work that they do.”
Family Fund previously supported Yunus, 46, who is a Livingston-based father of four, to take his family to Blackpool last year.
Yunus had stopped working in cyber security to become a full-time, unpaid carer for his daughter, Arya, 5.
She suffered from Acute Lympoblastic Leukaemia, a cancer in blood cells, which her dad described as “hell on earth.”
Arya rang the bell last Christmas, marking the end of her treatment. Now, she receives regular health checks and is doing well aside from minor side effects from treatment.
Yunus also cares for his wife and his son with autism. He said: “The support that organisations like Family Fund provide people facing the circumstances I have is invaluable.
“You never expect the worst to happen to your own family, but when it does, it’s crucial that help is available. I am so proud of my daughter and of my entire family.
“Being able to take a short break brought some light back to our lives during one of the toughest periods for my wife, my children, and myself. I’m pleased the Scottish Government is helping to make that a reality for many others.”
Community projects across Scotland have secured £990,000 funding in the latest round of Open Fund awards from The National Lottery through Creative Scotland.
Broadening access to culture and creativity lies at the heart of the Open Fund. November’s awards showcase this commitment with projects such as a solar-powered mobile theatre space bringing puppetry to Scotland’s most remote communities, Scots folktale workshops welcoming the nation’s new residents, a theatre residency in the Highlands offering transformative skills development and initiatives tackling gender barriers in the music industry.
Vision Mechanics is setting the stage for a new era of theatre with The Solar Stage – a travelling, solar-powered and carbon neutral performance space, designed to tour bespoke marionette puppets across the country. This self-sufficient mobile venue will bring live theatre to communities where cultural access may otherwise be limited-bringing creativity to peoples’ doorsteps.
With over 40 years dedicated to the art of marionette puppetry Vision Mechanics will use The Solar Stage to showcase their latest project, The Circus of Dreams, inspired by the magic of Edwardian and Victorian travelling circuses. Audiences can expect a fully immersive space, exploring the intricate craftsmanship behind each puppet and stepping into a world where puppetry meets sustainability.
Symon Macintyre, Artistic Director at Vision Mechanics said: “Creative Scotlland’s Open Fund has enabled us to create The Solar Stage, not simply a theatre, but a sculptural, solar-powered artwork that becomes home to the last touring marionette show in Scotland.
“This support allows us to bring a rare and fragile art form to communities that seldom experience it, while touring in a truly sustainable way. The fund is helping us preserve marionette heritage, nurture new artists, and share something magical with audiences across the country.” country.”
Folktales for New Scots is a vibrant community arts initiative designed to share Scotland’s rich storytelling tradition with those making Scotland their home.
Led by Beetroots Collective CIC, the project will deliver 24 interactive storytelling and art workshops across Edinburgh, Glasgow, Ayr and Peebles. Each session pairs a local storyteller with an arts workshop inspired by the chosen folktale, creating space for cultural exchange and artistic expression.
Marta Adamowicz and Robert Motyka, Directors and leading artists at Beetroots Collective CIC said: “The Open Fund will provide us with the opportunity to foster new collaborations, explore artistic experimentation, and engage socially across diverse Scottish locations.
“Through these initiatives, we will welcome new participants and reach new audiences, thereby contributing to Scotland’s rich cultural landscape.
“Migrant communities will gain deeper insight into Scottish culture while sharing their own traditions, creating a meaningful exchange.”
Vivid Roots Collective is launching its Pilot Residency Project to empower Highland-based theatre makers with the skills and support to create original work.
Taking place across three venues in the north of Scotland, the residencies will offer local theatre makers the chance to develop new projects while participating in workshops and scratch nights, building regional connections and strengthening local theatre communities.
Vivid Roots will offer 11 public events, create paid opportunities for seven openly recruited artists, and casual work for mentors and workshop facilitators. In total, 29 artists will be involved with audiences across online and in-person events – bringing fresh creative energy to the Highlands
Laura Walker, CEO and Creative Producer at Vivid Roots Collective, said:“This funding has allowed us to make a huge transition as an organisation.
“We announced in the autumn that we would be moving away from a festival model so that we can support more artists across a year-long programme of events, and a wider area of delivery.
“This programme is all about supporting artists to invest in their own creative and professional development, with a big focus on delivery across multiple locations in the Highlands, which we have been working on since the beginning.”
Hen Hoose Collective is tackling gender-based barriers in the music industry with a 16-month programme of free, practical skills development initiatives for women and non-binary creatives.
The programme will offer writing camps, production workshops and career development sessions, while partnering with organisation such as Music Broth, We Are Here Scotland and One Groove to produce a collaborative project.
Participants will also have the opportunity to up-skill at a songwriting residency in Fife, working alongside acclaimed producer Dan Gautreau at First Cut Studios.
Tamara Schlesinger, founder and CEO of Hen Hoose said: “The funding from Creative Scotland Open Fund has been absolutely transformative.
“It has allowed us to uplift and support nearly 700 women and non-binary artists across Scotland through panels, workshops, mentoring, and collaborative songwriting projects … for so many, this fund has been genuinely life-changing, and we are incredibly grateful to be able to continue this work.”
These awards are among 50 individual grants made to artists and creative practitioners across Scotland in November 2025. Other awards spanning artform and location include:
Commenting on November’s Open Fund awards, Paul Burns, Interim Director of Arts at Creative Scotland said: “This group of awards demonstrates the ingenious ways organisations are ensuring all parts of society and all areas of Scotland have access to culture.
“Thanks to the support of National Lottery players, communities across the country will be able to enjoy award-winning musical performances, experience innovative new theatrical environments and learn new skills, as well as developing their own creativity.”
A man has been arrested and charged in connection with six sexual assaults in Stockbridge and the New Town.
Police received reports of three incidents on the evening of Friday, 12 December, 2025, in the Fettes Row, Inverleith Row and Saxe Coburg Street areas. Three further incidents were reported thereafter in the Dean Bank Lane and Royal Crescent areas.
Following extensive enquiries, a 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection. He is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 22 December.
Detective Inspector Dougal Begg said: “We know these incidents caused concern in the local community and I would like to thank members of the public for their support during our enquiries.”
CHILDREN TO BE OFFERED CHICKENPOX VACCINE
Following a detailed review by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), the UK’s independent expert group on vaccines, Public Health Scotland (PHS) has been working with the Scottish Government and colleagues across NHS Boards to make some changes to Scotland’s childhood vaccination programme.
The changes, which began in July 2025, are based on the latest scientific evidence and are designed to ensure that children continue to have the best possible protection from vaccine-preventable diseases.
From January 2026, children will be offered a varicella (chickenpox) vaccine as part of the routine childhood schedule for the first time in Scotland.
JCVI’s recommendation is to offer a two-dose programme offering vaccination at 12 and 18 months of age, using the combined MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and varicella) vaccine.
Varicella vaccines have been seen to dramatically decrease the number of cases of chickenpox seen in childhood when used in other countries.
Dr Daniel Chandler, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at PHS said: “Chickenpox is a highly contagious infectious disease. While most cases of chickenpox in children are relatively mild, many children are unwell for several days and have to miss school or nursery as a result. In some cases, chickenpox can be more severe and can lead to hospitalisations from serious secondary infections or other complications.
“The offer of the varicella vaccine is a welcome new addition to the routine childhood schedule and, as well as reducing the number of cases, will prevent more severe cases of chickenpox.”
Vaccination programmes are regularly reviewed to make sure that all children are offered the best protection against preventable diseases. As new vaccines become available, or research shows that giving existing vaccines at different times improves protection, the programme will be changed.
Parents and carers will receive appointment invitations from local NHS immunisation teams and are encouraged to look out for them and bring their children for vaccination as scheduled.
Where to find more information:
Parents and carers who want to know more about the vaccinations offered to their children should visit nhsinform.scot/vaccinesforchildren
Information about the new MMRV programme is available at MMRV vaccine | NHS inform
With just two weeks to go until First Footin’ transforms the Capital into a free, city-wide music trail, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has announced the event will include live streaming for the first time, opening the New Year’s Day performances to audiences around the world.
To mark the announcement, members of Tinderbox Orchestra, plus award-winning fiddler and First Footin’ co-curator Aidan O’Rourke and classical pianist and talented singer-songwriter Chiara Lordi, gathered outside St Giles’ yesterday for a pop-up performance, tuning up for their gigs on 1 January.
Running as part of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay’s four-day celebrations from 29 December to 1 January, First Footin’ invites audiences to explore iconic venues and beloved spaces across the city, backed by a diverse programme of free live music.
For the first time, audiences unable to attend in person will be able to experience First Footin’ with live streams from both St. Giles’ Cathedral and Greyfriars Kirk, broadcast between 2–6pm on New Year’s Day via www.edinburghshogmanay.com. The new live streaming offering extends the reach of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations beyond the Capital, sharing the city’s music, culture and atmosphere with a global audience.
Online audiences will be able to enjoy live performances from Tinderbox Orchestra with special guests Rachel Sermanni, James Emmanuel and Kathryn Joesph in St. Giles’, whilst Greyfriars Kirks presents electro-trad pioneers Valtos and special guests from the Basque Country including Maren, Mikel Urdangarin and Olaia Inziarte, for an afternoon of incredible music and collaborations.
Celebrations extend into the evening with a programme of great live music in intimate venues with the First Footin’ Sessions with Cold Town Beer, taking place in city centre pubs Cold Town House, The Black Bull, The Huxley, Element, Copper Blossom, Boozy Cow and Auld Hundred hosting a series of performances.
Highlights include 2025’s Sound of Young Scotland winner Alice Faye, performing at Copper Blossom at 6pm, 7pm and 8pm, Pictish Trail (Solo) at Cold Town House plus Eamonn Coyne and Tom Oakes at The Black Bull from 6-9pm, and Ciaran Ryan and Paul Godray at Auld Hundred from6-9pm, giving audiences the chance to discover emerging and established Scottish talent.
Alongside the launch of live streaming, full set times for all First Footin’ events have now been announced, allowing audiences to plan their New Year’s Day music trail in advance. Music will be playing from 2pm – 9pm at St Giles’ Cathedral, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Hall, Eve at Virgin Hotel, Leith Arches, Fruitmarket, Rainy Hall, Gilded Saloon, Portobello Town Hall, The Scottish Cafe and more.
Full set times are listed below and at www.edinburghshogmanay.com.
As Castle of Light: Fire and Ice prepares to draw its sixth dazzling season to a close, visitors are being invited to experience the award-winning after-dark event at Edinburgh Castle one final time, with a special £10 ticket available for the final night (Sunday 4 January 2026).
Illuminating the capital’s skyline throughout the festive season, Castle of Light has once again captivated audiences with extraordinary installations, immersive storytelling and breathtaking projections, this year inspired by the elemental forces of fire and ice.
With only a handful of dates remaining in its seven-week run, there are limited opportunities to journey through Scotland’s most iconic fortress as its transformed into a mesmerising world of light, sound and wonder.
To celebrate the closing night on Sunday 4 January 2026, all tickets will be available for just £10, offering a final chance for visitors to escape the everyday and experience the magic of Castle of Light before the festive season fades.
Created by a consortium of Scotland’s leading digital and visual artists, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES), Castle of Light has become a highlight of Edinburgh’s winter calendar, blending cutting-edge creativity with centuries of Scottish heritage.
Kit Reid, Head of Experience at HES, said: “Castle of Light: Fire and Ice has been a huge hit with visitors, with people travelling from far and wide to experience the iconic site lit up after-dark.
“We’re delighted to offer these £10 tickets and encourage anyone who hasn’t experienced the event yet to come along and celebrate the final night of this year’s spectacular event.”
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.CastleofLight.scot
