COSLA President says rebuilding trust in politics starts with stronger local voices

THE PRESIDENT of the body representing Scotland’s 32 councils has urged a room of leading political figures to rebuild trust by giving people and places a stronger voice in how decisions are made locally.

Speaking at the COSLA Annual Conference in St Andrews this week, Councillor Shona Morrison used her opening address to urge political leaders to back a bold, long-term vision for local democracy – one that gives communities the powers, trust, and resources they need to thrive.

The call comes at the first major event following the launch of COSLA’s manifesto, which acknowledges 50 years of the organisation and sets out a clear roadmap for strengthening local government and empowering communities across Scotland.

In introducing the overarching theme of the event, “The Future of Localism”, Councillor Morrison told delegates: “Localism means trusting communities, empowering councils and rejecting unnecessary centralisation. It means recognising that Scotland’s strength lies in its diversity, urban, rural, island – and that one-size-fits-all solutions rarely work.

“It means giving councils the powers and resources to empower those voices in their communities, so that decisions are shaped together, with local knowledge at the heart of every choice.”

Marking COSLA’s 50th anniversary, the 2025 Conference brings together leaders from across local government, business, academia and public life.

The event features high-profile contributions from First Minister John Swinney MSP, Douglas Alexander MP, and Alastair Campbell, alongside figures such as Olympic champion Duncan Scott OBE, David Duke MBE, and Professor Sir Gregor Smith, Chief Medical Officer for Scotland.

Building on the momentum of the manifesto, the President reiterated COSLA’s key asks of all political parties ahead of the 2026 election:

  • A fair, multi-year financial settlement to protect and plan local services.
    Empowerment of local democracy, ensuring decisions are taken as close as possible to communities.
  • A valued workforce, recognising the essential role of council staff in delivering public services.
  • Action for future generations, embedding children’s rights and opportunities at the centre of policy-making.
  • Investment in thriving and cohesive communities, to tackle inequality and strengthen local resilience.
  • Support for thriving places, through sustainable economic growth, housing and transport investment, and a just transition to net zero.

COSLA’s manifesto, launched last month, outlines what the organisation describes as a “turning point” in the relationship between national and local government. It calls for full implementation of the Verity House Agreement, reform of local taxation, and new powers for councils to make local choices based on local priorities.

Councillor Morrison added: “The manifesto is about ensuring we set our own agenda, rather than merely responding to that of others. COSLA is a voice of influence, and we want it to be heard strongly by those seeking parliamentary election and those that wish to form the next Scottish Government.

“It calls for a relationship between local and national government that is based on trust, respect, and parity of esteem. We are asking those who make up the next Scottish Government to empower local democracy and our communities. Decisions must be taken as close to communities as possible.

“Our asks are not optional, they are essential if Scotland is to thrive. We want to work constructively with all parties, but we will not accept anything less than fairness and the power to act for our communities.”

Taking place in St Andrews, The COSLA Annual Conference, sponsored by CCLA, took place over two days with plenary sessions, panels, and fringe discussions on topics including care reform, climate leadership, community cohesion, and online life for future generations.

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LifeCare: Five years, 42,000 hot meals – and a call for support to keep wheels in motion

“Community support is the secret ingredient” – 60% of LifeCare’s meals are free for the growing numbers of local older people struggling on a low income

LifeCare Edinburgh’s Meals on Wheels service is celebrating its 5th birthday — a remarkable milestone in local community care. Since launching in the midst of the pandemic in 2020, the charity has freshly prepared and delivered more than 42,000 hot, two-course meals to over 300 older people across north Edinburgh and Leith.

Thanks to the generosity of funders and donors, 60% of all meals – over 29,000 in total – have been delivered completely free of charge to older people living on low incomes. This fundraising support has ensured that thousands of older residents have had access not only to nutritious, hot meals, but also to vital social connection and care.

Prepared fresh each day by LifeCare’s café team and delivered by kind-hearted drivers, the service has become a true lifeline for many older residents. With more than 75% of clients living alone, that friendly knock on the door and a familiar face can be as uplifting as the hot meal itself. 

The service also acts as an important early warning system — if someone doesn’t answer the door or seems unwell, LifeCare’s team can quickly check in and ensure further support is put in place.

Chef Tony, from LifeCare’s community café, CafeLife, said: “Every meal we send out is made with care, because we know it’s not just food – it’s comfort and company too.

“The team in the kitchen puts their heart into making sure every meal is tasty, nourishing, and feels like something special arriving at the door. Community support is the secret ingredient, and if local people and businesses can continue to give generously to support us, it will help keep our wheels in motion for the years ahead.”

A Lifeline with a Long History

Sarah van Putten, CEO of LifeCare Edinburgh said. “It’s a huge moment of pride for us.  Our history of support goes back a long way – LifeCare actually predates the NHS, and as a charity we first offered Meals on Wheels almost a century ago. The needs we were meeting back in the 1940s – tackling isolation, nutritional concerns, and low incomes – are still very real today.

“When the pandemic hit, many of our older clients were shielding, and as a team we worked hard to relaunch the service to reach those most in need.

“Five years on, we’ve delivered more than 42,000 hot meals, and it’s become a true community lifeline. It shows what’s possible when people come together to care for one another.”

John, 77, receives free Meals on Wheels twice a week, he said: “I realised I just couldn’t do as much for myself as I could a few years ago. I’ve always been independent despite my disability, but getting older makes things harder. Everyone at LifeCare is marvellous — they always find a way to help.

“I get Meals on Wheels twice a week — kindness delivered to my door! The food is amazing, and the drivers are great company.  LifeCare’s support has changed my life. I don’t feel isolated anymore, and I know they’re always there if I need them.

“To anyone thinking about using or supporting LifeCare — don’t wait. It’s the best thing you’ll ever do!”

LifeCare’s ability to deliver this life-changing service depends on the generosity of its funders and supporters.

The ScottishPower Foundation has played a vital role over the past two years, helping to bring 6,000 free, freshly prepared meals to people’s doors this year — meeting nearly half of all requests for support across the last 12-months.

Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said: “We know that older people in communities across the country are facing significant challenges as we head into the winter months – from nutritional needs to social isolation. The Meals on Wheels service by LifeCare is a lifeline, addressing these critical issues with compassion. 

“Over the past two years, our partnership with the charity has made a real difference. They are providing delicious hot meals and also social connection with care. We’re proud to have played a role in supporting LifeCare Edinburgh’s essential services.”

Share the Warmth This Winter

As the colder months draw in, LifeCare is inviting the local community to help spread a little Christmas cheer by supporting its Meals on Wheels service.

This festive season, the charity will be delivering hundreds of traditional Christmas meals with all the trimmings, alongside its regular daily service bringing freshly prepared, hot nourishing meals to older people across the city.

With each meal service costing £7.50 to prepare and deliver, LifeCare relies on the generosity of local people and businesses to help meet growing demand throughout the winter months.

A small donation can make a big difference — ensuring that older residents continue to enjoy warm meals, friendly visits, and vital social connection all season long.

Donations can be made online at www.lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk  by calling 0131 343 0940, or in person at LifeCare’s community hub and CaféLife on Cheyne Street, Stockbridge.

Edinburgh Leisure launches unmissable £1 Black Friday Membership Deal

Edinburgh Leisure is making it easier than ever to kickstart your fitness journey in time for the festive season with an unbeatable offer: a £1 joining fee across all memberships, available for a limited time only from 14th – 30th November.

Whether you’re looking to swim, lift, climb, or stretch your way to better health, Edinburgh Leisure’s Full Fitness membership offers the best value in the city – giving you access to the widest range of activities across multiple venues, all with no contract and total flexibility.

This year’s offer is even more exciting with the inclusion of Evolve Meadowbank, a cutting-edge hybrid gym and Hyrox training club, now part of the Full Fitness package. It means more choice, more flexibility, and even greater value – all under one membership.

More Than Just a Gym

From state-of-the-art gyms and swimming pools to fitness classes, golf simulators, and climbing walls, Edinburgh Leisure offers something for everyone. And with a strong local focus, the campaign is shining a spotlight on three key venues:

  • Meadowbank Sports Centre – Featuring a modern gym, two fitness studios, Evolve Hybrid Gym, running track, and Café Refresh.
  • Leith Victoria Swim Centre – Home to a 25-yard Victorian pool, sauna, gym, and three group fitness studios.
  • Craiglockhart Leisure and Tennis Centre – Offering gym access, fitness classes, all at the home of tennis

Don’t Miss Out

This limited-time offer is your chance to join Edinburgh Leisure for just £1 plus the cost of whichever flexible membership you choose to suit your lifestyle and experience the breadth of fitness activities available across the city.

With no contract and local venues on your doorstep, there’s never been a better time to move more and feel great.

Offer valid from 14th – 28th November 2025.  Join now:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/black-friday

‘Broken’ careers service funding model to be reformed, UK Government confirms

‘just one meeting between jobseekers and advisors a year is like trying to fill an ocean with a teaspoon‘

Funding for careers advisors will be reformed, the UK Government has confirmed, following criticism of the current model in a report by a cross-party Committee of MPs.

Westminster’s Work and Pensions Committee’s Creating a new jobs and careers service report said that a combination of poor funding and badly designed targets had led to the service spending too little time with people and focusing too much on low impact interventions.

In its response to the report, the Government said that bringing “careers advice in England in house will end the current incentivised model and enable the development of a more integrated service”.

Careers advice in the UK is devolved, so these changes will not automatically apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Government also agreed with the Committee on the importance of recognising the distinct roles of work coaches and careers advisors. It added that it was looking into a “dedicated training pathway” for advisors in addition to the planned Coaching Academy for work coaches.  

MPs on the Committee made their recommendation following fears that the planned Jobcentre-careers service merger would eliminate the distinction between Work Coaches and Careers Advisors, which they thought would reduce the effectiveness of the service.

The DWP also committed to providing certainty to staff at the National Careers Service by publishing a transition plan in the next 6 months. Since publication of the report, the Government has moved to bring the contracts for careers advisors in-house, sparking concerns among advisors over what will happen when their contracts run out on 30 September 2026. 

Committee Chair, Debbie Abrahams said, “We welcome the Government’s recognition that the careers service funding model was broken and that it must be reformed.

“Budgeting, as it does now, for just one meeting between jobseekers and advisors a year is like trying to fill an ocean with a teaspoon.

“The job is about finding out enough about people, their ambitions and interests, their skills, the barriers they face, what drives them, their needs, in order for them to be effective. A new, less exclusive, model would help meet the goals of Government and get people into work that suits them; benefitting jobseekers, employers and ultimately, the economy.

“The recent brief shake-up will help. Giving the DWP sole responsibility over the adult skills brief, instead of sharing with the Department for Education, should help to reduce the incoherent patchwork of services that are available. And bringing the careers service in house, rather than outsourcing, will in time provide clearer lines of accountability, and greater efficiency.

“But we have to recognise that pressing on with little detail on what will happen after current contracts end in September 2026 has caused significant worry among careers advisors. Certainty on this could be the solid foundation that ensures the new system gets off to the best start.

“So, the Government really needs to crack on with fleshing out the detail of the service from 2027 to boost the confidence of advisors and in the new system.”

Heating support for pensioners begins

Financial support to help pensioners heat their homes this winter has started to roll out across the country. Pension Age Winter Heating Payment will provide support to at least 880,000 pensioners to help with heating bills. 

The first payments have been processed and have started to land in accounts. Payments will continue to be made throughout the winter. 

Eligible people of State Pension age will get a payment between £101.70 and £305.10 depending on their circumstances. Most people will receive their payment automatically – no action is needed.  

Everyone who is eligible will receive a letter with details of their payment. 

For pensioners with a taxable income of over £35,000, the payment will be taken back through the tax system during 2026/27. 

Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “We know that energy costs are too high, and that this will affect households across Scotland this winter.  

“Pension Age Winter Heating Payment will provide vital support for thousands of older people to help heat their homes and manage costs throughout the colder months. 

“People over the age of 66 don’t need to do anything – in the vast majority of cases, the payment will be made automatically to help towards a warmer winter.” 

  • The Scottish Fiscal Commission have forecast that around 1.055 million payments will be made in winter 2025-26, with the number of payments recovered estimated to be 169,000. Fiscal Update: August 2025  
  • Pension Age Winter Heating Payment replaces Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland and will be delivered by Social Security Scotland.

GrantonYouth Christmas Fair

SATURDAY 29 NOVEMBER 12 – 3pm

Granton Youth are having their annual Christmas fair on Saturday 29th November 2025 (12 – 3pm) at Granton Salvation Army (36 Wardieburn Drive).

We are still looking for donations for all the stalls if anyone would like to donate x

Police launch Operation Winter City 2025 campaign

POLICE in Edinburgh have launched Operation Winter City 2025 – the annual policing campaign to keep the public safe as they visit the city centre over the festive period.

There will be an enhanced presence of officers out on patrol to engage with people and offer reassurance and crime prevention advice, as well as to respond to any incidents that may arise.

Chief Inspector Craig Rogerson, Gold Commander for Operation Winter City, said yesterday: “Anyone who’s ever visited Edinburgh over the festive period knows just how amazing the city is at this time of year.

“That’s why it’s important that our policing response is appropriate and proportionate to meet the demand of the additional visitors to the Capital, but to also reflect the very special atmosphere that is generated during Christmas and New Year.

“Local officers will be supported by colleagues from neighbouring divisions during patrols throughout the city-centre and anyone requiring assistance is welcome to come and speak to them, whether it’s to report a crime, or request information.

“On behalf of everyone within Edinburgh Division, I wish you all a safe, secure, and Merry Christmas.”

Read more: https://orlo.uk/JKcqZ

Police seek witnesses to Clermiston Road crash

Road Policing officers are appealing for information following a crash in the Clermiston area.

Around 8.15pm last night (Friday, 14 November, 2025), we were called to a report of a crash on Clermiston Road involving a white Mercedes Vito van and a black Sur-Ron electric motorcycle.

Emergency services attended and the rider of the motorcycle, a 28-year-old man, was taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with what are described as serious injuries.

The road was closed to allow for investigations to be carried out and re-opened around 11.45pm.

Sergeant Paul Ewing said: “Our enquiries are ongoing, and I would ask anyone who has yet to speak to police to get in touch and review any dash-cam footage for anything that may assist with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3236 of 14 November, 2025.

City Centre robberies: Man and woman arrested and charged

Two people have been arrested and charged in connection with robberies and attempted robberies in Edinburgh city centre.

Between Wednesday, 12 November and Thursday, 13 November, 2025, three people were approached in the city centre and asked to hand over belongings.

A 53-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman are due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Friday, 14 November, in connection.

Detectives believe there was another attempted robbery on Nicolson Street 3.55am on Wednesday, 12 November, 2025, and this has not yet been reported. Officers are appealing for the couple, and the member of the public who intervened in this attempted robbery, to come forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 0320 of 12 November 2025.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.