Cats Protection invites cat owners to nominate their pets for the UK’s biggest celebration of cats – the National Cat Awards.
The event recognises our special relationship with cats, honouring heart-warming tales of devotion, courage and friendship.
As one of the nation’s favourite pets, cats bring fun, comfort and companionship to millions of people. They live alongside us in all sorts of ways, from the sociable cat who greets all the neighbours to the homely lap-cat on our sofa.
Entries opened on 15 January and owners have until noon on 28 February to nominate their cat in one of four categories:
Family cats: For cats who make a family complete, whether it’s being there for companionship, providing solace in tough times, or simply keeping everyone amused.
Incredible cats – Recognising cats with a remarkable tale – maybe they’ve survived against the odds, returned home after an epic adventure, raised the alarm to an emergency or even saved a life.
Senior cats – Celebrating cats aged 11 or over, who showcase why older cats are special.
Connected Cats – For cats who share the love and bring joy to people far and wide whether in the community, workplace or social media.
Owners or colleagues can also nominate a vet who has provided exceptional care for a cat in the Vet of the Year category.
The public will get a chance to vote for their favourite cats, with their owners invited to a star-studded ceremony in London on 24 September where the winners will be revealed.
Workplace expert, Acas, is urging bosses to check in on their staff as its helpline statistics revealed a rise in mental health related calls in Autumn / Winter compared to Spring / Summer.
The Acas helpline saw an almost 20% rise in calls on mental health in the Autumn and Winter months combined compared to the Spring and Summer months in 2024.
Blue Monday has been marked by some to be the most depressing day of the year but Acas advice is for employers to prioritise mental health throughout the year.
Acas Head of Inclusive Workplaces, Julie Dennis, said: “Awareness days are a great way to raise the profile of mental health at work but bosses should be prioritising staff mental health throughout the year.
“Employers that create an environment where staff can openly talk about their mental health are better equipped to support them at work.
“Employees should also take steps to look after their own mental health and have coping strategies in place. Acas has advice and training on how to support and manage mental health and wellbeing at work.”
Acas advice for employers on managing staff mental health include:
Be approachable, available and encourage team members to talk to you if they’re having problems;
Keep in regular contact with your team to check how they are coping;
Respect confidentiality and be calm, patient, supportive and reassuring if a staff member wants to have a chat about their mental health;
Consider whether someone may need workplace adjustments, for example working more flexibly;
Look after your own mental health and get support if you feel under more pressure than usual. This support could be a colleague at work, a mental health network or a counsellor; and
Clearly communicate the internal and external support available to staff. This can include offering practical help such as signposting to financial advice or bringing advice providers into work.
Acas advice for workers to support their own mental health and wellbeing include:
Talk to people you work with or friends about how you’re feeling;
Speak to your manager about how you’re doing, your situation, and ask what support is available;
Reflect on what helps you feel more positive and what does not;
Acas has a range of training courses to help employers manage mental health at work.
Psychotherapist sends Blue Monday warning
AN EDINBURGH based mental health expert has warned that the concept of Blue Monday trivialises mental wellbeing – and may do more harm than good.
As a consultant psychotherapist and co-founder of The Anchor Practice, Paul Bell and the 13-strong team of clinicians form the largest private practice of its kind in Scotland, working with children, adolescents, young adults and families.
Paul said: “I find myself increasingly concerned about how this well-meaning but misguided concept of ‘Blue Monday’ impacts our understanding of mental health.
“While the day ostensibly aims to raise awareness about mental wellness, it actually risks trivialising the complex reality of depression and mental illness.”
“The notion that depression can be predicted by a specific date on the calendar not only promotes harmful pseudoscience but potentially undermines the gravity of mental health struggles known to be increasing in Scotland – particularly among our youth.”
The Anchor Practice team witness on a daily basis the profound challenges faced by individuals grappling with mental health issues.
He added: “Scotland currently faces unprecedented challenges in child and adolescent mental health, with waiting lists for specialist services at record levels.Against this backdrop, the commercialisation of mental health through concepts like Blue Monday is particularly tone-deaf.
“When major brands use this pseudo-event for marketing campaigns – whether selling holidays, gym memberships, or wellness products – they can inadvertently contribute to a superficial understanding of mental health.
“The fundamental issue with Blue Monday lies in its oversimplification of depression.”
The original concept for Blue Monday, originally created for a travel company’s PR campaign, claimed to use a mathematical formula considering factors like weather, debt levels, and time since Christmas.
Paul said: “This pseudo-scientific approach misrepresents both seasonal and clinical depression. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a clinically recognised condition that deserves proper understanding and treatment.
“The reality is that mental health support requires sustained, long-term commitment – both at a societal and individual level.
“This means securing long term funding for Scotland’s mental health services; improving access to professional support for children and adults and promoting genuine mental health education in schools and workplaces.”
The Anchor Practice is a multi-disciplinary clinic, offering a range of evidence-based treatments, but also specialises in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy – a well-researched treatment for a variety of common mental disorders in children and adults.
Contemporary psychodynamic psychotherapy is firmly rooted in high quality research and informed by contemporary understandings of neuroscience and developmental psychology.
Delivered by highly trained and regulated clinicians, psychodynamic therapy can provide sustained results, promoting deep, lasting change beyond symptom management.
On behalf of His Majesty’s Government and the United Kingdom, I would like to send my warmest congratulations to President Donald Trump on his inauguration as the forty-seventh President of the United States.
For centuries, the relationship between our two nations has been one of collaboration, cooperation and enduring partnership. It is a uniquely close bond. Together, we have defended the world from tyranny and worked towards our mutual security and prosperity.
With President Trump’s longstanding affection and historical ties to the United Kingdom, I know that depth of friendship will continue. The United Kingdom and United States will work together to ensure the success of both our countries and deliver for people on both sides of the Atlantic.
Since our first meeting in September, the President and I have spoken about the need to deepen and invest in the transatlantic relationship. We will continue to build upon the unshakeable foundations of our historic alliance as we tackle together the global challenges we face and take our partnership to the next level focused on shared opportunities ahead for growth.
I look forward to our next meeting as we continue our shared mission to ensure the peace, prosperity and security of our two great nations.
The special relationship between the United Kingdom and United States will continue to flourish for years to come.
Streetreads Library, a vital community space, based in Nicholson Square in Edinburgh, which serves 150-200 people experiencing homelessness every week, is facing closure after unexpectedly being served an eviction notice.
The well-used independent service, operated by Simon Community Scotland and solely reliant on donations and fundraising, provides not just books but a sense of belonging and hope to those who visit. It currently costs around £75,000 a year to run.
Fiona Williamson, Head of Service for Simon Community Scotland in Edinburgh, said: “We are devastated and deeply concerned about the impact this will have on people who use the library.
“Streetreads opened in 2021 and has grown exponentially alongside the people we support. There will be a huge gap in services and support while we seek new premises, as our appeal for more time to find an alternative site has sadly been declined.
“At very little cost, Streetreads creates immeasurable value for the city. Losing this space is not just a blow for the most vulnerable and isolated people in our city — it’s a setback for Edinburgh as a whole.”
Michelle, a regular visitor to the space, said: “Streetreads is more than a library— it’s a sanctuary. It’s the only place where I feel human.”
With up to 100 people rough sleeping in Edinburgh and over 5000 people living in homelessness accommodation, the need for safe spaces has never been greater.
Simon Community Scotland is urgently seeking a new location to ensure no one is left without this lifeline service.
The charity needs funds to help secure the right space that will meet the needs of the people being supported, including mental health support, creative writing and arts, educational opportunities, advice, community and hope, as well as the opportunity to find a quiet, warm, safe space to read, get a cup of tea and have a chat.
Lorraine McGrath, CEO for Simon Community Scotland, said: “The need for safe places, support and hope has never been greater.
“This eviction underscores the growing challenges facing people in Edinburgh who are increasingly at risk of homelessness and all the related harm and trauma. We need urgent support to find a new home for Streetreads. We have been advised that alternative premises are likely to add an additional £20,000 a year to running costs.”
Award-winning authors Ian Rankin and Michael Pederson have voiced their support for the charity.
Rebus creator Ian Rankin, said: “I’ve known and supported Streetreads from the very beginning and always enjoyed visiting the library and drop-in centre.
“I’m so hoping that suitable accommodation can be found for this crucial enterprise. Streetreads means the world to its many users.”
Michael Pedersen, writer in residence at The University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh’s Makar (Poet Laureate), said: “Streetreads Library is an incredible, crucial, and vital resource to Edinburgh and Scotland beyond.
“It’s refuge and salvation, it’s connection and inspiration, and so so much more. I’ve been awe-struck by the work they do, their warmth and innovation, and the enthusiasm their clients have for the space, its people and the facilities.
“Quite frankly, it’s invaluable. And all this from a library that’s only in its infancy (in the grand scheme of things). We need to be growing it, supporting it, championing it and celebrating it. It’s a model for others to learn from, to follow, but only if we rally behind them now and henceforth.
“What a formidable loss this location would be, a beacon of hope taken from the chest chamber of our capital city.”
Fiona Williamson added: “This isn’t just a library—it’s a lifeline. This is a chance for Edinburgh to show its spirit and solidarity. We’re asking landlords, businesses, and community members to help us to secure the right space which requires investment and funding.
“I am excited that together, we can ensure no one is left without the safety, opportunities, learning and hope that is provided by this vital service.”
Leith Theatre is proud to reveal it will be the Edinburgh home of Restless Natives: The Musical.
The brand-new stage version of the classic Scottish film will kick off a three-month summer programme of theatre, music and film co-commissioned by Restless Natives’ producers, Andy Paterson and Wild Yak Productions, and the Leith Theatre Trust team.
Welcoming audiences back into the venue is a significant milestone for Leith Theatre. This curated collaboration will offer a rare and exciting chance to enter the faded grandeur of a theatre that has remained largely the same since opening in 1932. This pop-up summer season will be a unique opportunity for audiences to glimpse at the theatre’s future while it continues on its journey towards restoration.
Original Restless Natives screenwriter and now lyricist, Ninian Dunnett, director Michael Hoffman and composer Tim Sutton, inspired by Big Country songs and themes, will open the season by delivering a not-to-be-missed full stage musical designed to delight devotees of the original movie and capture the hearts of a new generation.
A charming sense of national pride is built as intrepid underdogs Ronnie and Will become Highland Highwaymen, holding up buses and winning international renown, fleecing tourists with panache, with all the quirky idiosyncratic fun coming to Leith Theatre’s raked stage in June 2025.
Although the Trust have operated on a pop-up basis in the past bringing a wide range of cultural activity, the creative focus has more recently been within the TV and film industry hosting a large number of shoots and productions. Excitingly, this will be the first theatre production to make Leith Theatre its home since 2018.
Restless Natives: The Musical will commence a summer 2025 programme, providing audiences with a chance to enjoy live cultural experiences in this iconic heritage venue while supporting Leith Theatre’s preservation.
Restless Natives producer Andy Paterson is thrilled to see the musical leading the summer programming for the venue: “We are so inspired by the Trust’s vision for this incredible building.
” Our memories of shooting key scenes from the film just a few hundred yards away on the Western Harbour make this new partnership all the more special.
“We can’t wait to bring the Clown and the Wolfman back to their actual and spiritual home in Edinburgh.”
By partnering with Restless Natives, Leith Theatre Trust will shine a spotlight on the building’s history and restoration journey and bring an exciting cultural experience to the stage that fits with all of the film, music and theatre connections that already make up the venue’s heritage.
Will this be the end of the story or the beginning of a legend?
Lynn Morrison, Chief Executive from Leith Theatre Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted to announce Leith Theatre as the Edinburgh venue and to work in partnership to deliver this incredible three-month summer season, starting with Restless Natives: The Musical.
“Despite the challenges posed by our building’s health, we remain committed to being at the heart of cultural life in Leith. This theatre adaptation blends theatre, film and music which is everything we love, and we couldn’t be prouder to welcome this exciting crossover and summer opportunity to our venue.”
Andy Paterson, who was one of the producers of the film and lead producer on Restless Natives: The Musical, said: “The moment we walked into Leith Theatre we had a feeling that we’d come home.
“The unique atmosphere and personality of the venue chimed with Ninian’s story. Both embody the resilience, the spirit of Scottish community, a sense of perseverance and solidarity – and the belief that with the right values and serious ambition, you can make something great.”
The company, which has a fulfilment centre in Dunfermline has received an accolade as a Top Employer in 2025
Taken: 27th November 2020
Amazon Peak Fun : MME1 Darlington:
Each year, the Top Employers Institute certifies organisations who are focused on putting their people first through their exceptional HR policies and Amazon in the UK has been recognised for the second consecutive year. This is also the third successive year the business has been recognised in Europe.
The Top Employers Institute programme certifies organisations based on the participation and results of their HR Best Practices Survey. This survey covers six HR domains consisting of 20 topics including People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and more.
Amazon Dunfermline General Manager, Jamie Strain, said: “I am thrilled that Amazon has been recognised as a Top Employer in the UK for the second consecutive year. This accolade reflects our unwavering commitment to the development and wellbeing of our employees.
“Our aspiration is to be Earth’s best employer and our teams continuously innovate and enhance our workplace, ensuring that all employees, regardless of their backgrounds, are proud to work at Amazon.”
In 2025, the Top Employers Institute certified over 2,429 organisations across 125 countries and regions.
Top Employers Institute CEO David Plink says: “Consistency in a not-so-consistent world? In a time of rapid change—where technological, economic, and social factors continually reshape our world—these extraordinary times bring out the best in people and organisations.
“This year’s Top Employers Certification Programme showcases the resilience of the certified Top Employers 2025, who consistently prioritise the growth and wellbeing of their people, as they enrich the world of work.
“We are proud to celebrate these people-first leaders and teams as the Top Employers for 2025!”
Edinburgh pizza restaurant Fired Dough is serving up a delicious new treat for customers with its first lunch menu.
The Lothian Road eatery opened its doors four months ago, promising to bring the ‘rich flavours of Naples’ to the city.
The traditional menu features a variety of classic hand-made woodfired pizzas using Neapolitan-style dough, which has been left to prove for up to 48 hours.
Now customers can enjoy a slice of the action at lunchtime with the new menu launching on Monday (January 20).
As well as the usual variety of antipasti and 10” pizzas, among the highlights of the menu are panuozzo sandwiches. These are pizza breads folded over with fillings such as prosciutto, buratta and rocket; pulled chicken, fior de latte mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes; or roasted vegetables with tomato pesto, rocket salad and fior di latte mozzarella.
Lunches are available in the 40-seater restaurant as well as takeaways from noon-5pm, seven days a week, with two courses costing £11.95 and three courses £13.95.
The new menu has been crafted “with passion and precision using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients”, according to owner and head chef Vinu Murugan, who is hoping to appeal to the busy office scene in that area of the city as well as the passing tourist trade.
“I’m really pleased to be able to expand our culinary offerings to the people of Edinburgh.
“We took our time to design what we think will be a great lunchtime menu and I’m sure our customers are going to love it!”
The Scottish Parliament has published its British Sign Language Plan, setting out the actions it will take over the next six years to improve access to parliamentary information and services for BSL users in the Deaf and Deafblind communities.
This follows a consultation on the proposed Plan, in which over 120 people took part in a series of in-person events across Scotland, as well as online. Contributions from these participants have helped to shape the 20 actions that will be taken between 2025 and 2031.
Some of these actions include continuing to provide BSL interpretation for First Minister’s Question Time, offering educational materials in BSL, and encouraging the use of BSL among Scottish Parliament staff.
“As an official language of Scotland with its own rich cultural heritage and history, BSL is central to the interests of Deaf and Deafblind people and the wider BSL community across the country,” said Presiding Officer, Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP.
“I am proud to present it, reaffirming our commitment to British Sign Language and its communities across our work.
Mark McMillan, BSL Communities Officer for the Scottish Parliament, said: “I am really pleased with how the new BSL Plan has been shaped by feedback from over 120 people, and importantly with many of them being Deaf BSL users sharing their lived experiences.
“I think this will really help to ensure that the Parliament continues to improve access to parliamentary information and services to BSL users in the Deaf and Deafblind communities, and the wider BSL community in the years to come.”
Since passing the British Sign Language (Scotland) Act 2015, all public institutions must commit to producing a BSL Plan, laying out how they will promote the use and understanding of British Sign Language.
These individual plans should aim for consistency between their own plan and the Scottish Government’s National Plan, which seeks to make Scotland the best place in the world for BSL users to live, work, visit and learn.
With winter pressures upon NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde services, patients are being encouraged to get ‘Home for Lunch’.
This involves, alongside their families, carers, and loved ones, making the necessary arrangements to help them return to the comfort of home the morning of their scheduled discharge.
The ‘Home for Lunch’ initiative asks patients, families, and loved ones to use the following checklist:
Arranging transport in advance, if required.
Ensuring appropriate clothing is available for travel.
Making sure their loved one has access to their home.
Preparing essentials at home, such as food and heating.
Establishing a Power of Attorney for healthcare matters.
Getting a patient back to their home environment, which could also include a care home in some cases, gets them back to their personal comforts and avoids the well-known risks associated with prolonged hospital stays.
Professor Angela Wallace, Executive Director of Nursing at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, explained:“We understand that no one wants to be in hospital any longer than required. That’s why we’re encouraging patients, families, and carers to help us ensure their loved ones get ‘Home for Lunch’. Achieving this means patients are back to their home comforts.
“Winter puts additional pressure on the NHS. It may seem small, but ‘Home for Lunch’ allows us to make sure we can admit patients who urgently need our care. This includes patients being seen quickly in our emergency departments and it helps us to ensure people can receive planned care without delay.”
Annette Cunningham, Senior Charge Nurse at the Discharge Lounge in the Royal Alexandra Hospital, said: “We’re here to help get patients home at the final stage of their stay at the hospital. We’re asking for patients, families, carers, and loved ones to help us by thinking about our checklist while in hospital and ahead of discharge.
“We know while in hospital, the focus for patients is on getting better and recovering. It’s during this time that family, carers, and loved ones can play a key role in supporting us with ‘Home for Lunch’. If they consider our checklist, it will mean their loved one can get back to the comfort of their own home in a timely manner.”
