A Scottish charity has welcomed the launch of the Pension Age Disability Payment. From today, the payment is available across all of Scotland for older people living with a disability or health condition.
Debbie Horne, Scotland Policy and Public Affairs Manager at Independent Age, said: “With the national rollout of the new Pension Age Disability Payment which replaces Attendance Allowance in Scotland, it’s really important that eligible older people receive this support, and everything else, that they’re entitled to.
“Our Older People’s Economic Wellbeing Index Scotland found that one in four (24%) people in later life with a health condition are not aware of disability related social security payments.
“This is money for people of State Pension age who are disabled, have a long-term health condition, or are terminally ill. It is not means tested.
“For older people who think they might be eligible, they can find out more from Independent Age’s new Pension Age Disability Payment guide. This is free and has up to date advice on what the entitlement is and how to claim.
“It is available through the Independent Age website or by calling our free helpline on 0800 319 6789 to request a copy. Our helpline and advice team can also advise any older people who is unsure whether or not they could be eligible for the payment.
“People currently receiving Attendance Allowance do not need to do anything and will be automatically transferred onto Pension Age Disability Payment by Social Security Scotland. They will continue to receive their payment uninterrupted”
The payment replaces Attendance Allowance in Scotland.
The 150,000 older people in Scotland who receive Attendance Allowance will be automatically transferred onto Pension Age Disability Payment in a phased process.
£10,000 Community Fund launched to support North Edinburgh organisations
Cruden delivers new grant opportunity as part of wider Granton Waterfront regeneration
A new £10,000 Community Benefits Fund, supported by Cruden and the City of Edinburgh Council, is open for applications. The flexible funding pot is available to third sector organisations operating in North Edinburgh, offering the opportunity to apply for financial grants or building and landscaping support to help improve local services and community spaces.
The deadline for applications is this Friday – 25th April.
The fund has been launched in connection with Cruden’s delivery of 143 high-quality, energy-efficient homes for social and mid-market rent at Silverlea – part of the city’s wider regeneration ambitions for Granton Waterfront. The homes will include a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom properties, including wheelchair-accessible accommodation.
Applications for the Community Benefits Fund will be accepted until Friday, April 25, 2025. Organisations can apply for up to £3,000 in grant funding or equivalent Cruden-delivered services (for individual applicants) or up to £5,000 in grant funding or equivalent Cruden-delivered services (for group partnerships).
Cruden has collaborated closely with R2, a network of organisations in North Edinburgh that focuses on partnership working, knowledge sharing, and generating lasting positive change for the local community, to create the fund.
This collaboration has ensured that the fund is closely aligned with the specific needs of the area.
Applications will be assessed based on their alignment with local priorities that promote partnership collaboration and demonstrate a long-term commitment to North Edinburgh. Special emphasis will be placed on initiatives that enhance the local food economy, promote anti-racism efforts, improve green spaces and public areas, and provide support and training for third-sector staff.
Michael Palethorpe, Production and Community Benefit Manager at Cruden, said: “Working closely with the North Edinburgh community, including the incredibly helpful R2 and City of Edinburgh Council, has been essential in shaping a fund that delivers real, lasting impact.
“This initiative ensures that support goes directly to the organisations and groups who are making a tangible difference on the ground.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for local people and charities to receive a valuable cash boost or practical support to bring their ideas to life and continue enhancing the area for everyone who lives there.”
Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said: “Community development funds matter hugely because they are a community benefit directly related to new housing being built.
“In addition to much needed new housing, I welcome funding from the developers that contributes to community projects and initiatives.”
The North Edinburgh Community Benefits Fund is part of a larger initiative to ensure that regeneration projects provide lasting value to the communities they serve.
This pilot scheme is administered by the City of Edinburgh Council, with support from local stakeholders, including R2.
Tickets for the biggest exhibition of primate behaviour ever staged go on sale today, Earth Day, Tue 22 April
Tickets for Monkeys: Our Primate Family available to book at nms.ac.uk/Monkeys
To mark the occasion, Louie the orangutan swung by the Grand Gallery at the National Museum of Scotland to meet Scottish primary school pupils Azalea Moghrabi aged eight and Marley Beamish aged seven.
Thanks to the support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery, children can visit Monkeys: Our Primate Family (28 Jun – 30 Nov 2025) for free.
For the first time, the National Museum of Scotland is also offering those on Universal Credit and other named UK benefits discounted exhibition entry.
From huge gorillas to tiny mouse lemurs, Monkeys will explore the remarkable lives of primates, our closest relatives. The exhibition will bring together more than 50 species and will raise awareness of continuing conservation efforts to protect these extraordinary animals and their fragile habitats.
Monkeys: Our Primate Family is the first exhibition of its kind, capturing primates acting as they would in the wild. Taxidermy specimens created for the exhibition reveal behaviours rarely seen by humans and demonstrate how primate species have adapted to survive in diverse environments.
The exhibition first opened at the National Museum of Scotland in 2016 before embarking on an international tour. It returns to Edinburgh for a final time having been seen by over 500,000 visitors in six countries around the world.
Dr Andrew Kitchener, Principal Curator of Vertebrate Biology at National Museums Scotland, said: ““We are all primates, but how much do we really know about our extended family?
“Following a successful global tour, I am delighted that more Scottish audiences than ever will be able to experience this remarkable exhibition, with discounts available for those receiving Universal Credit and other named UK benefits.
“Kids will also go free thanks to the support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery. Monkeys: Our Primate Family provides a unique opportunity to see these fascinating animals up close and learn what we can do to protect them in the wild.”
Visitors to Monkeys will discover how primates have evolved and adapted, their unique methods of locomotion, and the tools they have developed to obtain food.
A gibbon swings through the trees while a chimpanzee fishes for termites.
The exhibition will also reveal the fascinating ways they communicate and their complex social systems. A tarsier shouts its ultrasonic calls and a vervet monkey reveals how its different calls warn about each different predator.
The final section of the exhibition looks at conservation as well as some of the threats humans pose to primates today, including the climate emergency, conflict, and the bush meat trade.
Visitors will see endangered primates, including the Sumatran orangutan and the black-and-white ruffed lemur and learn about how we can make a difference to their survival.
All the primates on display are part of National Museums Scotland’s internationally significant natural sciences collection which comprises more than 10 million specimens and is in constant use for study.
A dedicated team of swimmers from Leith Victoria Swim Centre successfully completed an ambitious challenge on Easter Monday, visiting and swimming in all five of Edinburgh Leisure’s Victorian pools in a single day to raise funds for the Active Communities programme.
The 14-member “Victorian Pool Crawlers” team swam up to one kilometre in each historic pool while walking approximately 16 kilometres between venues throughout the day. The challenge has raised over £870 to date, with donations still coming in through their JustGiving campaign.
Among the participants was 48-year-old Marek Bernat, who only learned to swim at Dalry Swim Centre in 2019. Originally from Poland, Bernat was motivated to learn after a frightening experience during a holiday in Bilbao, Spain.
“I lost my footing and tumbled down some stairs into water,” Bernat recalled. “That’s when I thought, ‘I’d better learn to swim.'” Now a regular at Leith Victoria Swim Centre’s skills and drills class, Bernat’s journey from non swimmer to Victorian Pool Crawler proves that it’s never too late to learn a new skill.
“This challenge brought together our love for swimming with Edinburgh’s incredible Victorian pool heritage,” said Alistair Clark, the group’s organiser.
“To swim in all five historic venues in one day was physically demanding, but knowing we were raising vital funds for Active Communities kept us motivated.
“The programme helps thousands of people overcome barriers to physical activity, and we’re proud to support such important work.”
Easily spotted in their day-glow, bright orange t-shirts and Edinburgh Leisure swim caps, the team attracted attention and support from other pool users throughout the day.
Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme works to tackle inequalities and combat the effects of inactivity by providing opportunities for people facing the greatest barriers to physical activity, including those affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequalities, and poverty. Each year, the programme supports around 12,500 individuals.
“The determination shown by the Victorian Pool Crawlers exemplifies the community spirit that makes Edinburgh Leisure’s work possible,” said Jenny Selman, Funding Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.
“Their efforts will directly help us create more opportunities for everyone to get active and stay active, regardless of their circumstances.”
Edinburgh Leisure is dedicated to helping people lead more active, healthy lives. With 53 sport, leisure, and school venues across the city, Edinburgh Leisure creates opportunities for everyone to get active and stay active.
Thousands of children to attend free breakfast clubs today, as UK government delivers its manifesto commitment and promise to working families
School mornings just got easier for families across England as 750 schools open breakfast clubs today, offering 30 minutes of free childcare, a healthy start for kids and a little more breathing room before the school bell rings.
Parents will be supported with additional time at the start of the day to attend appointments, get to work on time and run errands. In total, this means parents will be able to save up to 95 additional hours and £450 per year if their child attends free breakfast clubs every day.
This amount rises to a saving of up to £8,000 every year when combining the free breakfast clubs with further support through the expansion of government-funded childcare and new school uniform cap on branded items.
With the cost of everyday essentials stretching budgets, these clubs will be a lifeline for working families simply trying to get by. When you’re raising a family, every penny counts and that’s why the government is stepping in to ease the pressure and put money back in parents’ pockets.
No matter the postcode or the pay packet, every child deserves the same chance to thrive. That’s the principle behind this rollout — real support for families in every corner of the country, so no one is left behind.
These clubs sit alongside action to tackle the cost of living, with inflation falling for two months in a row, wages growing faster than prices and fuel duty frozen. The Labour government says that, together, they show the Plan for Change is delivering for working families.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “As a parent, I know that the combined pressures of family life and work can often feel impossible to juggle. That is why our manifesto promised to make parents lives easier and put more money in their pockets with free breakfast clubs. Under a year since we came into office, this government is delivering that through our Plan for Change.
“The rollout of free breakfast clubs is a truly game-changing moment for families in this country. They mean parents will no longer be hamstrung by rigid school hours and have the breathing space they need to beat the morning rush, attend work meetings and doctors’ appointments, or run errands. And crucially, it means better life chances for children.
“By making these clubs free and universal, we’re doing something that previous governments have never done. We’re going further and faster to deliver the change working families deserve. That’s the change this government was elected to deliver.”
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Free breakfast clubs are a central part of our Plan for Change. At a time when there is so much pressure on families, they provide real help with the cost of living and ensure children start the day with a nutritious meal.
“On top of the hectic school run, parents should not have to worry about how to balance work and getting their children fed and ready for school. These clubs will break down barriers and help children settle in, focus and get the most out of their learning.
“We are delivering on our promises and giving every child the best start in life while making sure families get the support they need, wherever they live.”
According to new government data, parents are also motivated to take up free breakfast clubs because of the improvements they can have on their wellbeing.
Many see them as is an opportunity to socialise with other children before school (30%) and spend more time doing the activities they enjoy (28%) – offering a supportive start to the day that leads to better behaviour, and better life chances.
The rollout delivers on the government’s manifesto promise to ensure state schools offer free breakfast clubs to all pupils; while supporting its Plan for Change milestone to ensure tens of thousands more children start school ready to learn.
Victoria Taylor, mum of two children aged 5 and 7, said: “For me, free breakfast clubs provide vital support, meaning I can get into work a little easier and ensure my two kids are settled and ready to learn.
“I’m a primary school teacher, so early mornings are a must however I try to not let my busy schedule dictate the pace of mornings.
“Taking my children to breakfast clubs means I know they are fed, ready to start the day and emotionally regulated – the commitment to rollout nationally will make the world of difference for working families.”
Trade unions argue that the funding allocated to breakfast clubs just isn’t enough, while charities and campaigners say that scrapping the current two child benefit cap would make a far greater difference in tackling poverty for the poorest families.
As thousands of runners prepare to take part in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival at the end of May, you might be wondering: could I complete a marathon?
Many people feel inspired by the challenge of a marathon, but are not runners, sparking the rise of the walking marathon!
Taking your first steps to conquering a marathon
Cancer charity Walk the Walk offers a feel-good way to fulfil your marathon dreams with The MoonWalk Scotland 2025
The MoonWalk is the original 26.2 miles overnight walking marathon and takes place on Saturday 6th September 2025, starting and finishing at Holyrood Park, Edinburgh
For those who are new to walking for fitness, Walk the Walk also offers an overnight 13.1 miles half marathon, as well as a family friendly 5K ZOOM Walk on the morning of Saturday 6th September, designed for all ages and abilities
The Power of Walking
Why not take the plunge, sign up for a walking challenge and make walking a regular habit?
May 2025 marks National Walking Month, spotlighting the simple but powerful benefits of walking for both physical and mental wellbeing.
A survey** commissioned by cancer charity Walk the Walk reveals:
82% of adults say walking boosts their mood and mental health
69% go for a walk at least once or twice a week to support their wellbeing
In a fast-paced world, walking is proving to be one of the most accessible and effective tools for self-care
Angela Mairs, 58 from Livingston was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024, following a routine mammogram. She’ll be taking on her second Full Moon (26.2 miles) at this year’s MoonWalk Scotland.
“The MoonWalk Scotland 2019 was my first ever marathon – I’d never done anything like it before. Although it was a tough challenge, I felt such a huge sense of achievement when I finished.
“Having now been diagnosed with breast cancer myself, this time my marathon will be very personal. I need to build up my stamina following all my treatment and all the training I’ll need to do before September will give me a fantastic focus.”
Drivers are being told that harsh acceleration and braking could be contributing to poor fuel efficiency.
Experts at LeaseLoco.com are sharing ways to help cash-strapped Brits minimise fuel waste on the road and save money.
As prices continue to rise, adopting more cautious driving habits and reducing unnecessary energy output can lead to significant savings.
Shopping around for the best fuel prices and planning ahead for fuel top ups can make a big difference in cutting costs.
Motorists should plan journeys and try to include well priced petrol stations in their route to prevent unnecessary detours for fuel.
Drivers are also advised to conserve fuel and prevent unnecessary consumption by avoiding excessive engine revs and sudden acceleration.
Other tips like closing windows to reduce drag on a vehicle, and minimising air conditioning use can prevent vehicles from overworking and using fuel unnecessarily.
These tips can also benefit electric vehicles (EVs). By minimising energy consumption, EV drivers can extend their driving range and reduce the need for frequent charging, ultimately saving money.
John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco.com said: “Fuel costs are continuously rising but there are a few ways to combat this which can help make a difference to your monthly budget.
“Some common bad habits that cause drivers to waste more fuel than they realise include unnecessary engine revs, harsh acceleration, and idling in traffic with the engine running.
“If you have an older car you’ll want to avoid frequently restarting your engine in brief stops. Those with new models however should definitely consider making the most of their stop-start systems to help reduce fuel consumption.
“By thinking ahead and driving smoothly, you can make significant savings on fuel by reducing your vehicle’s consumption.”
10 fuel saving tips:
Shop around
Checking out where near you has the cheapest fuel, you can use sources such as PetrolPrices.com to help you work this out.
Accelerate and brake smoothly
Driving smoothly, with gentle acceleration and braking will help to reduce fuel consumption by minimising sudden spikes in fuel usage.
Reduce engine revs
Revving your engine increases fuel consumption. By reducing revs, you can make your fuel usage more efficient.
Use cruise control
Using cruise control or driving at a steady, consistent pace, particularly on motorways, will help reduce fuel consumption.
Remove unnecessary weight
The heavier your car, the more energy it requires to move. Reducing unnecessary weight will decrease fuel consumption and improve efficiency.
Top up tyre pressures
Make sure your tyre pressure is topped up; this will reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. Under inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which can increase fuel consumption.
Combine trips and plan ahead
Plan your trip in advance to find the quickest routes and avoid traffic, especially on unfamiliar journeys. This can help you save time and reduce fuel consumption. If possible, combine trips and car share if you’re taking the same route.
Cut down on air conditioning
Anything that requires energy from your vehicle, such as air conditioning, will consume fuel to operate. To reduce fuel costs, it’s best to minimise the use of air conditioning when possible.
Close windows
Driving with the windows open can increase drag on your vehicle, requiring more acceleration to reach speed. Particularly on fast roads, keeping the windows closed will help reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
Turn engine off
When stopped for a few minutes, turn off your engine. In newer cars, utilise the start/stop function. Reducing idling can help lower fuel consumption and costs.
A Night of Radical Music for International Workers’ Day
Songs For Solidarity: A Night of Radical Music for International Workers’ Day
Join us at North Edinburgh Arts for an unforgettable evening of radical song and solidarity. In celebration of International Workers’ Day, we’re bringing together folk musicians from Edinburgh and beyond for a night of powerful performances, inspiring stories, and collective spirit.
Sponsored by: Fair Pley, Edinburgh, Lothians and Borders May Day Committee, Allan McDougall Solicitors, Democratic Left Scotland, UCU Scotland and the Scottish Trade Union Congress (STUC).
You still have time to apply for this cycle of our Conservation Funding Programme!
Does your historic building require major exterior repair? If you’re a property owner, commercial business or community group, with a property within the World Heritage Site or adjacent Conservation Areas, you might be eligible for funding.
Head to our website for more information about applying, eligibility and FAQs:
