A majority of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee do not support the general principles of the Right to Addiction Recovery (Scotland) Bill

PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR RIGHT TO RECOVERY IGNORED?

A majority of a Scottish Parliament Committee is unable to recommend the general principles of the Right to Addiction Recovery (Scotland) Bill be agreed to. 

The Health, Social Care and Sport Committee highlight a series of concerns with the Bill and say it will require significant amendments, should it proceed to Stage 2.

The Member’s Bill, introduced by Douglas Ross MSP, seeks to give people diagnosed with drug or alcohol addiction a statutory right to receive treatment from a relevant professional.

The Committee recognises the strength of evidence received throughout its Stage1 scrutiny which revealed a high level of dissatisfaction with availability and access to support services for those experiencing harm from drug or alcohol misuse.

However, the Committee’s Stage 1 report also highlights widespread stakeholder concerns that the Bill’s focus is too narrow and could lead to a deprioritising of prevention and early intervention when tackling harmful drug and alcohol use.

The Committee says it has heard substantial evidence of the significant strain those working in drug and alcohol services are currently under and says the Bill could potentially exacerbate pressure on the workforce and resources.

Fears that the three-week statutory deadline in the Bill could compromise treatment quality, limit choice, and increase relapse risk are also highlighted. The Committee raises concerns that this treatment deadline could end up putting further pressure on over-stretched resources.

There are also concerns that the costs of implementation set out in the Financial Memorandum are a significant underestimate and the Committee concludes that the Bill may result in resources being diverted from addressing the needs of individuals in order to achieve legal compliance with the Bill.

The Committee points to ‘strong evidence’ that the right to treatment outlined in the legislation could set a dangerous precedent and expectation for a similar legal right to treatment for other conditions.

Further concerns are also raised by the Committee that an unintended consequence of the Bill could be a significant rise in litigation, in cases where health services are unable to meet the legal rights set out in the Bill.

Stakeholders’ doubts about whether legal rights alone can overcome cultural, capacity, and resource barriers, and concerns over proposed enforcement routes as being too costly and complex are highlighted by the Committee.

There are also concerns about the way the Bill might interact with the existing legal framework governing the rights of people suffering harm from alcohol or drug use.

Should it proceed to Stage 2, the Committee calls on Douglas Ross to consider further ways of ensuring that the Bill works in tandem, rather than in conflict, with the existing policy and legal framework.

Clare Haughey MSP, Convener of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee, said: “Our Committee recognises the long-standing and serious harms that drug and alcohol misuse can have on individuals and families across Scotland.

“The number of people suffering from drug and/or alcohol use in Scotland is still far too high and our evidence made it clear that more must be done to tackle these issues.

“However, a majority of our committee do not believe this Bill is the correct vehicle to effectively support those suffering harm from alcohol or drug use.

“Our report highlights our serious concerns with the Bill in its current form and it is because of those concerns that a majority of our committee is unable to recommend to Parliament that the Bill should proceed to Stage 2.

“We acknowledge the Bill’s aim of helping those suffering from drug and alcohol misuse. However, our evidence has highlighted that the Bill in its current form could negatively impact individuals who are suffering and put even greater strain on services that are already deeply stretched.

“On behalf of the Committee, I am grateful to everyone who has provided evidence and informed our scrutiny of the general principles of this Bill.”

Douglas Ross MSP responded: “Disappointing that Holyrood’s Health Committee has said the Right to Recovery Bill should fall.

“But Parliament doesn’t have to agree. This Bill would guarantee a legal right to treatment. With lives lost every day, I hope MSPs back further work on it.”

Other key findings in the report:

  • the Committee notes concerns that the Bill places a particular emphasis on abstinence-based types of treatment over harm reduction, rather than focusing on what is best for each individual
  • the Committee voices concerns that the Bill could prove exclusionary, in that individuals who have not received a diagnosis of addiction would not be able to exercise the right to access treatment conferred by the Bill
  • the Committee notes a range of concerns about the language and definitions used in the Bill. For example, the Committee highlights suggestions that a more appropriate alternative term to “addiction” would be “substance use disorder”, as defined by the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders”
  • the Committee is concerned by the Bill’s lack of acknowledgement of the crucial role families and carers play in supporting individuals, the role of multi-disciplinary teams, and regrets that the Bill makes no direct reference to the critical role of independent advocacy. 

Public Support for Right to Recovery Ignored

Annmarie Ward of FAVOR UK (Faces and Voices of Recovery) said: We have published a detailed statement responding to the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee’s Stage 1 report on the Right to Recovery Bill.

“The statement sets out why the Committee’s decision ignores overwhelming public support, repeats long-debunked myths, and privileges government-funded institutions over families and lived experience.

You can read the full statement here:  

https://facesandvoicesofrecoveryuk.org/public-support-for-right-to-recovery-ignored/

“Scotland remains the drug death capital of Europe. Nearly 80 percent of consultation respondents supported the Bill, yet the Committee has chosen to defend the status quo rather than recognise the urgent need for enforceable recovery rights. This deserves immediate scrutiny.”

Tech Teardown at Drumbrae Library

30th SEPTEMBER from 2 – 4pm

Ever wanted to know how your day-to-day tech works?

Join Edinburgh Remakery at Drumbrae Library Hub for a hands-on workshop guiding you through swappable parts to safely dismantling or keeping your devices working.

No tools or tech needed!

This event is for anyone aged 14 and up and is free with no need to book.

Come along and join us on 30th September 2pm-4pm.

https://www.edinburghremakery.org.uk

Will reform improve Scotland’s freedom of information system?

Proposed changes to strengthen the public’s right to information and increase transparency among public authorities are set to be scrutinised in Holyrood

.

The Scottish Parliament’s Standards, Procedures and Public Appointments (SPPA) Committee has launched a call for views on the Scottish Government’s Freedom of Information Reform (Scotland) Bill.

The Bill would update the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 by making the public’s right to information explicit (unless it is subject to an absolute exemption) and establishing a new duty for public authorities to publish information proactively.

It would also bring more bodies under freedom of information rules and mandate the appointment of freedom of information officers, to improve compliance.

In a move to improve the effectiveness of existing processes, the Bill would give the Scottish Information Commissioner stronger enforcement powers. It would remove the First Minister’s power to override the Commissioner’s decisions and allow the Commissioner to refer cases of failure to comply with the timescales directly to the Court of Session.

The Committee now wants to hear from users of the Act (which includes the media, trade unions and campaigners), public bodies, and bodies providing public services that may become subject to freedom of information rules under the Bill (such as third sector organisations and housing associations).

The range of organisations with an interest in this Bill is wide and is also likely to include academics and think tanks involved in representative democracy, legal bodies, information governance professionals and others who are involved in interpreting and applying freedom of information legislation.

The call for views is open now and will close to responses on 22 October 2025. The Committee plans to hold evidence sessions with stakeholders in November.

Martin Whitfield MSP, Convener of the Standards, Procedures and Public Appointments Committee, said: “With the original Act now 20 years old, it’s timely to look at how the law might be updated.

“New legislation must be clearly defined and workable. The Committee is keen to hear views on the Bill’s proposals, and whether its aims to strengthen existing processes, increase transparency and extend coverage are likely to achieve their intended impact.

“The Committee will listen clearly to these views and take them into account, together with the oral evidence we will gather, to suggest how the Bill might be amended and improved.

“If you are a user of the Freedom of Information Act, subject to its rules (or may be, following the Bill), involved in interpreting requests or have an academic or public interest in the system, please do share your views on this Bill.”

The call for views has opened and can be found here: Freedom of Information Reform (Scotland) Bill

Cost of Living Support Event at The Crannie

CRANNIE COMMUNITY HUB: FRIDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 10.30am – 1.30pm

Crannie Community Hub (9 Cranston Street, EH8 8BE) is hosting a Cost of Living Support Event this) Friday (26th September) from 10:30am -1:30pm.

It is a collaboration between the office of Angus Robertson MSP and the community hub. There will be multiple organisations with stalls offering face-to-face advice and support + tea and coffee. 

The organisations are: 

  • Edinburgh Old Town Development Trust 
  • Citizens Advice Bureau 
  • Social Security Scotland 
  • Home Energy Scotland 
  • AgeUK
  • Southside Community Centre/CHAI
  • Living Rent Tenants’ and Community Union 
  • Advocard 

No booking required – ALL WELCOME! 

Developer Vivere reveals Extra Care Home Development Plans

EXTRA CARE DEVELOPER VIVERE UNVEILS PLANS TO BUILD c200 NEW HOMES IN EDINBURGH OVER NEXT 5 – 7 YEARS TO HELP MEET HOUSING DEMAND

Extra care developer-operator Vivere plans to build a portfolio of extra care communities in and around Edinburgh over the next 5-7 years, providing circa 200 new extra care homes with high-quality on-site amenities and care services. 

Starting the portfolio, Vivere has just acquired from St George’s School the 2.2 acre Lansdowne House site on Coltbridge Terrace in Edinburgh, and plans to transform this into the brand’s first community of high quality new extra care homes in the city. 

Vivere plan to invest some £25 million in the refurbishment and restoration of the listed buildings on the site and the construction of the new community.  

Subject to planning consent, the Lansdowne House scheme will provide a combination of refurbished heritage and newly built homes, alongside spectacular communal lounges and amenities created within the historic main Victorian villa on the site, originally built in 1875 as Coltbridge Hall and was previously owned by a number of notable Edinburgh residents over the years. 

It will be the first in a series of extra care projects that Vivere are planning for central Edinburgh. 

As part of their expansion plans Vivere are currently looking to acquire other sites in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife. The business is looking to purchase sites that can provide between 50 to 80 homes, for either new build, converted properties, or a combination. The sites for review being in established residential addresses, ideally with proximity to local public transport and amenities.

Vivere was formed by a joint venture between Probitas, a specialist in extra care and senior living homes, and Stephenson Group, a leading contractor and mixed-use investor-developer founded in 1962 with offices in Scotland, England and Wales.

Vivere is led by Co-Founding Director Scott Curran, who was born in Edinburgh and is a qualified architect from the School of Art in Edinburgh. Scott has worked in Edinburgh for CDA, PJMP, Balfour Beatty, MACE, and Applecross.

Alongside Scott is Co-Founding Director Beatrix Lehnert, with both directors having over 30 years of expertise in residential, commercial, BtR and PBSA projects, with the past 13 years focused on the assisted living sector.

Vivere business partner and Co-founding Director Martin Stephenson is the Chairman of Stephenson Group which is a market leader in construction and property development with an annual turnover in excess of £100 million (Source: 2024/25 accounts).

To deliver the new communities in Edinburgh Vivere is working with award winning Scottish based architectural practices, planning consultants and landscape consultants.

For the Lansdowne House site in Edinburgh Vivere has appointed award winning Scottish architectural practice CDA Edinburgh, landscape architects Rankinfraser, and Edinburgh based planning and heritage consultants Montagu Evans to help prepare proposals for the new community. 

With its award winning professional team, the brand will focus on creating and delivering a portfolio of high-quality extra care living communities designed for where residents can enjoy their life and age in place, supported by appropriate on-site amenities and care services for a healthier life and wellbeing. 

This fully aligns with the Scottish Government’s ambition to both raise life expectancy in Scotland and the number of years that people can spend in good health, supported by both suitable properties to live in and the services to assist their needs.

Scott Curran, Co-Founding Director of Vivere says: “It is our aim to create a portfolio of high-quality extra care living communities in Scotland, commencing in Edinburgh. These will be high quality homes, alongside on-site amenities and tailored care services to suit resident’s needs.

“Our aim is for our residents to live longer, not grow old. The provision of extra care communities will help to relieve local pressures on NHS services, as well as providing homes to the hugely undersupplied housing sector in Scotland.”  

Martin Stephenson, Chairman of Stephenson Group and Co-founding director of Vivere said: “Scotland, like the rest of the UK, has an overwhelming demand to provide housing with care and services to a large and fast-growing older demographic, but with the key difference for Scotland currently being the huge lack of supply of these tailored homes and services within the housing sector.

“With its development plans Vivere aims to provide a quality product to the market and help to meet the demands in the sector.” 

Vivere Co-Founding Director Beatrix Lehnert added: “The forming of Vivere represents significant new long-term investment and job creation in the Edinburgh economy. 

“Alongside delivering best-in-class extra care schemes, our approach is to partner with Scottish businesses, suppliers and operators who are local leaders in their field to provide the care services and amenities for our new communities.

“This way Vivere will help to create new jobs and investment in Edinburgh alongside the construction jobs generated by the building of our new projects.”

For further information on Vivere visit: www.vivere-scotland.com

Tackling urban gull problems

New funding for affected towns and cities

Communities across Scotland will benefit from £100,000 to tackle disruptive urban gull populations.

Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie will chair a summit in Inverness today bringing together local councillors, housing associations, business representatives, waste management organisations and community groups, scientific experts and NatureScot.

The summit was called to address growing concerns about gull behaviour in urban areas, where populations are increasing, even as coastal numbers decline.

He will also confirm that NatureScot will be investing £100,000 in councils to support efforts to limit the damage caused by gulls, ahead of next year’s breeding season. Deterrents can include measures such as the use of lasers, noise, roof spikes and netting to prevent nesting.

Mr Fairlie said: “The summit allows us to share practical solutions, learn from real-world examples and identify gaps in current policies to develop a coordinated approach.

“We know that effective gull management often requires a range of solutions, particularly around litter management which provides food sources.

“Where public safety is at risk, NatureScot can issue control licences. Our focus now is on how we can prevent these issues from arising next year, with extra support provided and I look forward to seeing the projects that this additional funding will help.

“By working directly with affected communities and expert advisors we can ensure solutions are tailored to local circumstances with effective deterrents that make urban areas less attractive to gulls.”

Professor Colin Galbraith, NatureScot Chair, said: “The evidence is clear that our gull populations are in decline. In some areas, gulls have adapted to the pressures they face – from climate change to food shortages and avian flu – by moving into our towns and cities in search of easier food and safe nest sites.

“We understand that some urban areas are experiencing issues with gulls and that this can have an impact on people’s lives, especially during the nesting season.

“While the debate on urban gulls has long centred on control through licensing, and that will undoubtably remain part of the picture, it is important at the same time to look at the underlying reasons for any problems, including the availability of food and nest sites for the gulls in urban settings.

“This funding will support local authorities to develop proactive and collaborative plans to manage gulls in a way that balances their conservation with any control activities.”

Edinburgh care home makes bold investment in residents’ wellbeing

Five-figure investment and physio partnership set a new standard

RESIDENTS at one of Scotland’s most luxurious care homes are stepping into a new era of wellbeing, thanks to a bold investment in their physical health.

Cramond Residence, located in Edinburgh, has unveiled a dedicated physiotherapy gym – transforming a lounge into a vibrant space designed to help residents stay stronger for longer.

Already, the specialist equipment is proving popular with residents, helping them rebuild strength, mobility and confidence as part of the wider physiotherapy offering.

Ross Bijak, General Manager at Cramond Residence, said: “The idea came directly from listening to some of our residents, and our physiotherapy partners.

“We’re already seeing residents gain confidence, move more freely and enjoy their sessions in a way that just wasn’t possible before. We could see the demand and the opportunity to do something far more impactful and really took that onboard.”

A standout feature of the transformed space is a £10,000 state-of-the-art exercise bike, usually found in elite rehab clinics or high-performance sports centres.

The ground-floor suite has now been fully refurbished in consultation with Balanced Edinburgh, who provide expert one-to-one therapy on-site. Every detail has been carefully thought of, from slip-resistant flooring and therapy bars to wall mirrors and guided physio videos.

 The new suite puts an end to scheduling clashes and brings clinical-quality therapy into a calm, private and bespoke setting.

Judith at Balanced Edinburgh, said: “We collaborated closely with the team at Cramond to create a space that meets the needs of both residents and therapists. From the flooring and mirrors to the overall layout, every aspect has been designed to enable focused, effective therapy.

“This dedicated space allows us to deliver consistent one-to-one sessions without interruption, helping residents to progress more steadily and confidently. It’s already making a noticeable difference.”

The new space has also allowed for a wider range of session times, increased privacy and a stronger therapeutic focus – especially important for residents undergoing rehab or recovering from injury.

Staff training on the new equipment is already under way, ensuring every team member can confidently support residents in getting the most from the facility.

Richard Annan, Client Liaison Manager at Cramond Residence added: “This is a real leap forward for us. Residents are already using the new equipment and feeding back on how it’s helping them day to day.

“When providing any service, we want to ensure we are giving residents the kind of environment and support that most people wouldn’t expect from a care home. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built here, and even more excited about the impact it will have.”

Cramond Residence offers a wide range of activities tailored for dementia care, enhancing residents’ quality of life and providing relief and support through specialist facilities and trained staff.

To learn more about Cramond Residence, please visit Cramond Residence’s website or contact them directly at enquiries@cramondresidence.co.uk.

For decades, my country supported a two-state solution but only recognised one state. That changes now.

PROTECTING THE PATHWAY TO PEACE?

Statement by The Rt Hon Yvette Cooper, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, at the High-Level International Conference for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution:

Thank you, Chair. Thank you, Your Excellencies, President Macron and Prince Faisal. I stand before you today, beneath the emblem of the United Nations, to confirm the historic decision of the British government to recognise the State of Palestine. 

This step, alongside friends and partners, reflects a longstanding truth. 

That statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people and that two states is the only path to security and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

But it also reflects a grave reality.

The two-state solution that for decades has commanded global support is in profound peril.

From continued bloodshed, man-made famine, terrorism and hostage taking, settlement expansion and settler violence.

And Hamas terrorists continue to hold hostages seized in the barbaric attack of October 7th, prolonging the unimaginable anguish of their families.

And in Gaza, the unbearable humanitarian catastrophe worsens as the Netanyahu government chooses to escalate war and hold back aid.

Children dying of starvation while food rots at the border.

And settlement expansion threatens the very viability of a Palestinian state.

The two-state solution risks disappearing beneath the rubble.

That is what extremists on all sides want.

But we refuse to let hope be lost.

Recognition is borne of urgency and principle.

Alongside our unwavering support for the security of Israel and its people.

This pathway is the opposite of Hamas’s hateful vision.

And this process around recognition has helped cement the rejection of Hamas across the Arab world.

Alongside new reforms to the Palestinian Authority.

Because there can be no role for Hamas in the future governance of Palestine.

But recognition must be a spur, not a substitute for urgent action.

A ceasefire now, the release of all hostages, the restoration of aid and a lasting framework for peace.

Recognition is about the future, but it is rooted in our past.

75 years ago, Britain was rightly proud to recognise the State of Israel.

But the promise of upholding Palestinian rights has gone unfulfilled.

For decades, my country supported a two-state solution but only recognised one state.

That changes now.

As we join more than 150 Member States in recognising the State of Palestine and protecting the pathway to peace.

Castle of Light ignites Scotland’s spirit with return to Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle will shine brighter than ever this winter as the UK’s largest annual projection show, Castle of Light, returns for a sixth year with an immersive experience inspired by the enchanting forces of fire and ice.

Transforming the iconic fortress into a stage of elemental wonder, this year’s spectacular after-dark walking trail fuses Scotland’s fierce spirit with its frozen beauty. Visitors are invited to step into a world where flame and frost collide as dazzling light and sound displays awaken the Castle’s stories born of volcanic fire and sculpted by the power of ice.

Running for seven weeks throughout the festive season, on select dates from Friday 21 November 2025 until Sunday 4 January 2026, Castle of Light: Fire and Ice promises to captivate audiences with extraordinary installations, interactive moments and atmospheric storytelling.

Guests will wander through a fortress of light and encounter mythical creatures, from a mighty dragon soaring across the night sky to the Ice Queen herself in the Great Hall.

Brought together by a consortium of the finest digital and visual talent in Scotland, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the larger-than-life installations combine cutting-edge projection, striking soundscapes and creative artistry to deliver the boldest Castle of Light yet — a breathtaking spectacle on a scale unlike anything else in the UK.

Alastair Young, producer of Castle of Light, said: “As we enter our sixth year, we’re bringing an even bolder and brighter adventure to Edinburgh Castle.

“Castle of Light: Fire and Ice draws on the fire that forged this ancient rock and the ice that shaped its form to tell a captivating story of resilience, transformation and wonder. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve joined us before, this year’s show promises to be like nothing you’ve ever seen.”

Alongside the awe-inspiring tapestry of storytelling projections, visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks and small plates, toast marshmallows by the fire pit, and indulge in a mouth-watering selection of street food on the esplanade.

Kit Reid, Head of Experience at HES, which runs Edinburgh Castle, said: “Castle of Light has become a much-loved winter tradition, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

“Now in its sixth year, we’re getting ready to present a completely new show that highlights both the fiery origins and the icy resilience of Scotland’s most iconic landmark.

“Castle of Light: Fire and Ice will transform Edinburgh Castle into an unforgettable festive experience, creating magical memories for families, friends and visitors of all ages as they’re invited in to see Edinburgh Castle in a whole new light and take in the breathtaking views of the Edinburgh skyline after dark in all its festive splendour.”

Ticketed entry slots will run every 15 minutes between 4.30pm and 7.30pm each evening, with last entry between 7.30pm and 7.45pm. The event closes at 9pm.

A special reduced-capacity ‘quiet night’ will also take place on Sunday 7 December, offering a calmer experience with softer lighting, lower sound levels and no smoke effects.

Adult early bird tickets cost £21.60 and are available until Tuesday 30 September (using the promo code: COLCM25 at checkout). Concession rates, family tickets and discounts for Historic Scotland members are also available.

For more information and to get your tickets, visit www.CastleofLight.com.

Advance booking required.

One in three workers in Scotland say workplace conflict is on the rise

Acas launches new strategy to prevent, manage and resolve disputes at work

Almost one-third of employees in Scotland say that workplace conflict is rising, according to a new survey by the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas).

New Acas-commissioned YouGov polling found that 30% of Scotland workers who knew of conflict in their organisation over the last 3 years said it has increased, compared to just 7% who say it has decreased.

The news comes ahead of major new employment law reforms, and with Acas experiencing increased demand for its services.

Responding to these challenges, Acas has launched a transformative five-year strategy to modernise how disputes at work are handled across Britain.

Niall Mackenzie, Acas Chief Executive, said: “Businesses in Scotland are doing much to promote productivity and economic growth, but our poll shows that there is more we can do to tackle conflict and help Scottish businesses grow and flourish.

“Our strategy for the next five years will give employers and workers across Scotland the skills and knowledge they need for the healthy employment relations that prevent conflict and promote growth.”

The new Acas strategy will help to support economic stability by reducing the cost of conflict – estimated to be £28.5 billion – through increased prevention, improved management, and earlier resolution of disputes.

The new Acas strategy will:

  • Prevent more disputes before they arise by targeting industries and groups where conflict is most likely
  • Support employers to manage conflict well with clear guidance, tools and training offers
  • Equip workers and employers with the skills and confidence to resolve problems earlier, including doubling the number of SMEs Acas is equipping to manage conflict well
  • Harness technology and data more effectively to focus Acas’s efforts where they can have the greatest impact
  • Drive innovation in dispute resolution, maintaining Acas’s record settlement rates (70% for individual disputes and 90% for collective disputes) while exploring the use of AI and new digital services to make support faster and more accessible