With just a few weeks to go before a pivotal election in Scotland, now is the time to urge our local representatives to address a major public health issue that has been overlooked for far too long.
As I write, the needs of the 1.5 million people in Scotland who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus are being neglected, and this must change.
It’s unacceptable that people with hearing loss in Scotland face routine waits of up to 18 months for audiology services, with some forced to wait even longer.
Too often, healthcare services in Scotland also fail to meet the communication needs of deaf people and those with hearing loss, such as providing an accessible alternative to the telephone, or a BSL interpreter for those who need one. This leaves people unable to fully understand or participate in decisions about their own care.
We want Scotland to be a country where the 1.5 million deaf people and people with hearing loss or tinnitus are fully included and treated with respect, dignity and understanding.
In the run up to the election, RNID is urging people to raise these issues with their local MSP candidates. You can contact your local candidates by visiting www.rnid.org.uk or by clicking here.
Regards,
Ruth MacLeod,
Health Policy Advisor, RNID – the national charity supporting people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus.
A youngster who suffered serious injuries after being trapped in a vehicle after a serious crash has been reunited with the SAS responders who helped him.
Thomas Bell, of Edinburgh, aged 12, was involved in the incident on May 8, which left him with serious injuries.
His dad, Grahame and Charlie, aged 10 at the time, were also in the vehicle.
The incident involved multiple SAS assets, including East SORT and EMRS West.
Thomas visited the Scottish Ambulance Service’s ScotSTAR base to meet up with some of the staff who assisted him, including Dr Tim Parke and Dr Jon McCormack.
Mum Orla said: “It was a very exciting day for the boys and an emotional one for my husband and I. Thomas spent more than 4 months in hospital, undergoing multiple complex surgeries.
“All of the emergency services helped save our son’s life and the NHS doctors and nurses gave him his future back. As parents, we simply could not have asked for better care, empathy and expertise. We will be forever grateful to all of the people involved and I will never stop saying thank you to you all.”
Dr Tim Parke, an emergency doctor who was on duty at the EMRS base in Glasgow, said: “Throughout the entire incident, Thomas remained completely calm and controlled. This was extraordinary considering the trauma of the accident and the injuries sustained.
“It was an honour to have played a small part in that journey.”
New data from Macmillan Cancer Support shows almost one in four people with cancer in Scotland are lacking specialist nursing support during their care – a figure basically unchanged since June 2022
Additionally, one in two people living with cancer in Scotland have been affected by local variation in their treatment and care, despite Scottish Government pledges.
Carrol Pollock, 61, a retired schoolteacher from Larbert, said: “No-one should have to fight for basic standards of cancer care,” after she was left to process the trauma of her cancer diagnosis and treatment alone.
In the buildup to the Holyrood election on Thursday 7 May, Macmillan Cancer Support has launched its Manifesto, calling for bolder and faster action to address a patchwork system that is failing the people.
Three years into the Scottish Cancer Strategy, the charity is concerned that progress to ensure people get the support they need is flatlining, and too many people are still not having their needs met.
New data from Macmillan shows almost one in four people with cancer in Scotland (24%) either do not have the support of a specialist cancer nurse during their NHS care but would like it, or the support they receive from a specialist cancer nurse isn’t enough to meet their needsi. This figure, from the charity’s January 2026 survey, has shown no signs of significant improvement since at least June 2022ii.
In addition, other recent data from Macmillan shows 49% of people living with cancer in Scotland have been affected by local variation in their treatment and care, including 46% who have had to travel for an hour or more for a test, scan or treatmentiii.
Everyone with cancer, no matter who they are or where they live, should be able to get the best possible cancer treatment and care that Scotland has to offer.
Carrol Pollock, 61, from Larbert, a retired primary school teacher and long-standing Macmillan volunteer, was abruptly told she had cancer. This happened following a routine mammogram that led to further tests that were consistently downplayed. She felt distressed and unprepared as result.
Initially she received compassionate support from a Macmillan-trained nurse who helped her cope with the shock of diagnosis. However, once transferred to her local hospital care became fragmented and her treatment was delayed well beyond the 35 days stated by Scottish cancer guidelines. Carrol waited for weeks without a clear plan despite being told in mid-January 2025 that the cancer may be incurable.
Carrol eventually received chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy but felt support dropped away at the end of treatment.
Carrol says: “The delays and the impact of the uncertain incurable update was huge and left me feeling overwhelmed, powerless and unable to advocate for myself.
“No one should have to fight for better standards of cancer care. Better communication, less fragmented treatment and care and keeping to cancer waiting time targets are vital for improving outcomes for people with cancer in Scotland.”
Peter Hastie, Macmillan’s External Affairs Manager for Scotland, said: “Without decisive action that goes further and faster than ever before, the gaps in outcomes for people with cancer in Scotland will remain unacceptably wide. The system is at crisis point and the pressures are growing. The people of Scotland deserve better from their cancer strategy.
“Macmillan is committed to being a partner in the challenges ahead. We will do whatever it takes to work alongside government, the health system, professionals, sector partners and most importantly, people living with cancer in Scotland – wherever they live, whichever community they’re from – to make it happen.”
Macmillan’s Manifesto launch on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile
People living with cancer, Macmillan professionals, local politicians and others gathered on Tuesday 17 March at The Scottish Storytelling Centre to launch Macmillan’s Manifesto calls, in the build to what is being termed the most consequential election at Holyrood since devolution.
Macmillan is calling for:
Bold action to tackle inequities in cancer care. We need to move faster to reduce inequity in cancer outcomes for people in the most deprived areas.
Clear steps to address unwarranted variation in treatment and care. 49% of people living with cancer in Scotland have been affected by local variation in their treatment and careiv – this situation is wholly unacceptable and must change.
A revolution in cancer data and digital infrastructure. The publication of vital statistics since the Strategy was released has been infrequent and incomplete. Macmillan is calling for the annual publication of detailed cancer statistics, broken down by deprivation and ethnicity, so we can build an equitable system
Renewed commitment to delivering person-centred care. Macmillan is the proud delivery partner of our innovative Improving the Cancer Journey (ICJ) which will cover the whole of Scotland by Spring 2026. We’re calling for the renewed commitment to embedding this community-based across the country
For information, support or just someone to talk to, call Macmillan’s free, confidential Support line 7-days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or visit:
Although we will not be open till late on Thursday 23rd April for World Book Night, we will still be celebrating at Stockbridge Library–please join us on Wednesday the 22nd from 6-7pm to share a poem or a short passage from an author who has made a lasting impact on your life.
No need to register in advance, but please do pick something that can be read aloud in under ¬3 minutes!
Loganair, the UK’s leading regional airline, is welcoming new applications to its GreenSkies Community Fund after distributing more than £100,000 to local projects over the last five years.
The bespoke environmental initiative, established in 2021, is designed to help charities, community groups, and small businesses to achieve their sustainability goals.
Applications for the fund are now open and will close on 7th May. Over the last five years, Loganair has awarded 24 projects over £100,000 in funding.
Last year’s successful projects included:
Murtle Garden in Aberdeen, which received £5,000 to install a new polytunnel in its walled garden, providing 50 young people living with learning disabilities access to a year-round growing and learning environment.
Shed the Light in Derry/Londonderry was awarded £5,000 to install a solar generator at Creggan Country Park to support its renewable energy workshops.
Winchester Hospice in Hampshire was granted £5,000 to purchase an e-bike and install bike parking to support low-emission palliative home care.
Gifford Community Woodland in East Lothian received £3,180 to plant 420 trees in an effort to restore woodland damaged by ash disease.
Uigshader Living Forest Project in Portree received £4,185 to purchase battery-powered tools for low-impact peatland restoration.
The variety of projects illustrates the breadth of the impact that the GreenSkies Community Fund has within communities, supporting organisations across a wide range of sectors to reduce their carbon footprint and improve sustainability.
Rebecca Borresen, director of safety and sustainability at Loganair, said: “Through our GreenSkies Community Fund, we’re proud to support the organisations and individuals taking practical steps to make their communities more sustainable. From restoring natural habitats to investing in renewable energy and low-emission transport, the projects we’ve funded so far show how local action can make a real difference.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the innovative ideas that come forward this year and continuing to support initiatives that help reduce environmental impact while delivering lasting benefits for communities across the UK.”
The GreenSkies Community Fund forms part of Loganair’s broader environmental programme, which includes commitments to carbon offsetting, investment in sustainable aviation technologies and achieving the ambitious target of becoming net zero by 2040.
Since its launch, the fund has supported numerous community projects and businesses across the UK in adopting greener practices and reducing their environmental impact.
The GreenSkies Community Fund is funded through a small mandatory carbon offsetting charge applied to every Loganair flight, with proceeds invested in accredited offsetting projects and community initiatives.
Interested organisations can learn more about the fund and submit their applications by visiting:
National Galleries of Scotland surprised hillwalkers, tram travellers and tourists by taking replicas of popular art works out into Edinburgh yesterday.
Passers-by could discover art typically found in the National, Portrait and Modern galleries popping up at sites such as Salisbury Crags, Newhaven, The Meadows, Murrayfield and Leith.
The art works including The Monarch of the Glen by Sir Edwin Landseer, Edinburgh (from Salisbury Crags) by William Crozier, Doddie Weir by Gerard M Burns, Encounter by Remedios Varo, Callum by John Emms and Mary Queen of Scots are always free to visit at the National Galleries of Scotland’s three Edinburgh sites.
Forever Edinburgh has unveiled its 2026 Resident Days programme, building on the success of last year’s launch which saw over 1,000 EH postcode holders enjoy exclusive access to attractions, tours and experiences across the capital.
Following a strong response to the inaugural programme, Resident Days returns with an expanded calendar of themed moments throughout the year. Delivered in partnership with a wide range of Resident Rewards partners, the initiative continues to give back to the people who power Edinburgh’s visitor economy by offering exclusive deals for those who call the city home.
Resident Days will give Edinburgh residents exclusive rewards, including discounted access to a range of leisure, hospitality and cultural experiences across the city from almost 30 organisations. This is running alongside the Resident Rewards programme, which offers residents access to exclusive deals and discounts throughout the year.
The 2026 programme begins with World Heritage Day on Saturday 18 April, celebrating Edinburgh’s rich history and internationally recognised heritage.
Residents will be able to enjoy a range of exclusive offers including 2-for-1 tickets at The Royal Yacht Britannia, a discounted Three Bridges Cruise with Forth Boat Tours, 50 per cent off food at Canopy Kitchen & Courtyard and a special rate for a round of golf at Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society, encouraging locals to rediscover the stories, locations and experiences that have shaped Edinburgh’s heritage.
The themed days continue across the year, each shining a spotlight on different communities and interests:
Father’s Day – Sunday 21 June 2026
World Tourism Day – Sunday 27 September 2026
Silver Sunday – Sunday 04 October 2026
World Children’s Day – Friday 20 November 2026
Across the programme, residents can expect everything from discounted tours and trails to free exhibitions, exclusive entry to attractions, money off treatments, as well as food and drink deals.
Several participating businesses also boast strong accessibility credentials, with attractions such as Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, Edinburgh Bus Tours and The Royal Yacht Britannia offering accessible facilities and experiences, supporting the programme’s ambition to make participation as inclusive as possible.
Councillor Jane Meagher, Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Resident Days are an important way for us to recognise and thank the people who make Edinburgh what it is. Our residents support the local economy year-round, and this programme is about giving something meaningful back to them.
“By working in partnership with businesses across the city, we are able to offer accessible and affordable opportunities for people to explore attractions, try something new and spend quality time together. It is about ensuring that the benefits of our visitor economy are felt by the communities who live here.”
Casey Rust, Director of Marketing at The Royal Yacht Britannia said:“We are proud to support Resident Days and to support the programme for World Heritage Day. It is a brilliant opportunity to welcome local residents on board and celebrate the heritage experiences that make Edinburgh so special.
“Being part of Resident Days allows us to give something back to the local community while sharing the story of Britannia with people who live right here in the city. The response last year showed there is a real appetite for residents to rediscover their city, and we are excited to be part of that again.”
Full details of participating venues and how to claim rewards will be available on Forever Edinburgh’s dedicated Resident Day microsite:
We are excited to share a delicious community meal with you today! We do our best to have a variety of options, including vegetarian and often a delicious pudding.
What’s on the menu today (Friday 10th April):
Root veg medley soup
Chicken and mushroom stew
Aubergine parmigiana (V)
Lemon drizzle cake
Please check the board or ask our volunteers about allergens. And just a heads-up, our food is served until it runs out!
To reduce disease, we all need to make some urgent but simple changes to how we feed our garden birds.
We all want to help birds and make our gardens or outdoor spaces a place where all wildlife can thrive. But some species, such as Greenfinches, are experiencing serious declines because of disease.
The good news is that we can help reduce the spread of disease by making two simple changes to the way we feed our birds.
How to help your garden birds
What’s the problem?
Research has shown a worrying decline in some of our much-loved garden birds due to a disease called trichomonosis. This is a highly contagious disease and can spread where birds gather in large numbers such as at bird feeders.
Greenfinches, for example, have dropped by over 65% in the last three decades – and you may have seen this decline yourself. Back when the Big Garden Birdwatch started in 1979 Greenfinches were at number seven in the top ten birds seen. This year they were down to number 18.
Greenfinch
We’ve been working with experts to find a solution, and we believe that, together, we can make a difference by feeding birds seasonally and safely.
How you can help
We can help stop the spread of disease among garden birds by making two simple shifts to how we feed birds. Put simply: Feed seasonally. Feed safely.
1. Feed seasonally
During summer and autumn, there’s a higher risk of disease spreading. But it’s also when there are more natural foods available to birds, such as seeds and insects.
1 May to 31 October
Pause filling your bird feeders with seeds or peanuts.
You can continue to offer small amounts of mealworms, fatballs or suet.
1 November to 30 April
You can feed your birds a full range of bird foods, including seeds and peanuts.
Song Thrush
2. Feed safely
Busy bird feeders can become hotspots for disease. To help keep birds healthy, it’s vital to keep things clean – which is why we’ve strengthened our existing hygiene guidance. We recommend you:
Clean your bird feeders and water baths at least once a week. Good hygiene is essential. Be sure to also clean away any old food or droppings from beneath feeders.
Place your bird feeders in a different spot every week. This will help to prevent any build-up of potentially contaminated debris underneath. If you have more than one feeder, put them in different areas to reduce the number of birds in one place and the mixing of different species.
Avoid putting feeders under places where birds roost, such as under trees. This will help to avoid contamination through droppings.
Don’t use bird feeders with flat surfaces, such as bird tables, window feeders and feeders with trays. Research has confirmed that there’s a higher risk of disease spreading on flat surfaces, where contaminated food can collect.
Feed in moderation. Make sure all the food you put out is eaten within one to two days. Adjust the amount you offer based on demand to avoid overfeeding.
Keep food as dry as possible. Damp food allows disease to survive and spread. Choose feeders that prevent rain getting in and limit condensation.
Change water in bird baths daily. Only offer water if you’re able to change it every day and make sure it’s tap water. A pond is the best way to provide birds and other wildlife with water.
Help birds find their own food. One of the best ways to support garden birds in the long-term is to help them find their own food. So fill your outdoor space with bird-friendly plants – such as sunflowers, teasels and ivy. These help provide natural food sources for birds.
Goldfinch
Thank you for protecting garden birds
Stopping the spread of disease is a challenge we can’t tackle alone. By taking these simple steps to feed seasonally and safely, we can all help protect the future of our birds.
We need more research to find ways to reduce the risk of disease spreading at bird feeders. Some studies are already under way, but we don’t yet know if or when they’ll lead to effective solutions. It’s also important to remember that this advice may evolve as new evidence comes in. But the science shows we need to take action. We believe changing how we feed birds now will help protect them in the longer term. It will take time to see the benefits, so patience is important.
EIGHT youths have now been charged after a bus driver was assaulted at Little France in Edinburgh.
Around 6.50pm on Sunday, 5 April, 2026, Police received a report of a man having been assaulted by a large group on Little France Crescent.
A 53-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment.
Two youths were charged at the time but, following enquiries, a further six individuals have been identified bringing the total to eight. Those involved will be reported to the relevant authorities.
Chief Superintendent David Robertson said: “This was an unprovoked attack on a man who was simply trying to do his job.
“Violent incidents like this will not be tolerated in our community, and we will ensure that those who do engage in this type of behaviour are brought to justice.
“We will continue to work with our partner agencies and would encourage anyone with information or concerns of this type of behaviour to call Police Scotland on 101.”
