MSPs ‘alarm’ at legal aid availability

Pic- Andrew Cowan/Scottish Parliament

MSPs on Holyrood’s Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee have voiced their alarm at the extent of “legal aid deserts” in Scotland, which are significantly impacting on people’s access to justice.

The Committee has been exploring civil legal assistance, commonly known as legal aid, in response to concerns raised about access to justice. Legal aid deserts can refer to geographical areas, or elements of law, where there is a lack of legal practitioners available.

During the inquiry the Committee heard of the challenges that people had in finding a legal aid solicitor, with some organisations making 50, or more, phone calls, or individuals needing to travel hundreds of miles to access a solicitor who can provide civil legal assistance.

Low fees for legal aid work and administrative complexity are identified as the key drivers behind the shortage of practitioners. The Committee’s report calls for the Scottish Government to take action to improve the situation immediately.

Reform of the legal aid system has been proposed for several years. An independent review of legal aid in 2018 called for reform to ensure greater focus on the needs of clients and simplification of rules.

However, despite committing to bringing forward legislation, the Scottish Government has not introduced a Bill to reform legal aid in the current parliamentary session. The Committee finds this highly unsatisfactory, given the overwhelming calls for change.

The report also recognises that eligibility is a key issue in access to legal aid. The Committee heard that many people who cannot afford to pay privately for a solicitor are unable to claim legal aid due to rules around disposable income and disposable capital. The Committee does not believe that this is tenable and that the figures used to set this should increase in line with inflation since 2011.

Karen Adam MSP, Convener of the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee, said: “A shortage of legal aid solicitors and ongoing challenges with access are seriously undermining people’s ability to exercise their rights.

“The consequences can be devastating. Victims of domestic abuse can be left without the support they urgently need, and many people find themselves struggling to access safe and secure housing.

“The case for reform is already clear, and we urge the Scottish Government to move forward with changes that will make a real difference.

“Fee reforms, reducing administrative burdens, and widening eligibility are all vital steps to ensure civil legal assistance is fit for purpose and that people across Scotland can get the justice they deserve.”

deafPLUS partners with SGN to keep Deaf communities safe and warm

Please Click Here for the BSL format

National charity deafPLUS has launched an initiative to tackle fuel poverty in the Deaf community in partnership with energy network SGN.

energyPLUS will deliver tailored, accessible services in British Sign Language (BSL) and provide resources to help Deaf households stay safe, warm and informed.

Rising energy costs and a shortage of accessible support means Deaf households are at greater risk of unsafe or unaffordable living conditions. deafPLUS’s survey found 64% of BSL users in south east England have difficulty accessing qualified interpreters for essential services.

Without tailored help, too many Deaf people are left behind.

The partnership will support Deaf communities across SGN’s Scotland and southern networks and aims to:

· Deliver one-to-one personalised energy safeguarding advice via deafPLUS’s BSL Adviceline, video calls, and face-to-face sessions in community hubs.

· Distribute accessible carbon monoxide (CO) alarms with strobe lights and vibrating pads to households most at risk.

· Provide Deaf awareness training for SGN customer-facing teams.

· Support vulnerable households to sign up for the Priority Services Register.

· Refer households for home energy assessments and income maximisation services.

· Reach 20,000 people through a social media campaign on energy safety, CO awareness, and efficiency.

Running until March 2026, direct support will be provided to 1,250 vulnerable households, helping them to reduce fuel poverty and energy debt, improve energy efficiency and protect themselves from the risks of CO.

Funded by SGN, they’ll also have access to trusted financial and wellbeing support, gaining confidence to manage their energy needs.

Deaf communities across SGN’s Southern network will be supported including those in Berkshire, Dorset, East Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Kent, London, Oxfordshire, Surrey, West Sussex, and Wiltshire, as well as their network in Scotland.

Reg Cobb, Chief Executive Officer at deafPLUS, said: “No Deaf person should be left behind when it comes to energy safety and affordability.

“This partnership will breakdown barriers that have excluded Deaf people from essential energy advice and safety information. Together with SGN, we can ensure Deaf households are supported to stay safe, warm, and informed.”

Janet Duggan, Community Partnership Manager at SGN, said: “Working with quality trusted partners like deafPLUS ensures we can reach communities who need our help the most.

“We’re proud to support the delivery of accessible, life-changing energy advice and safety resources for Deaf people.

“Working with deafPLUS means we can deliver life-changing energy advice and resources to communities who need them most.”

See the launch for yourself here 

Man sentenced for sexual offences in Edinburgh and Aberdeen

On Thursday, 18 September, 2025, a 22-year-old man was sentenced to nine years and six months in prison for sexual offences at the High Court in Edinburgh.

Jack Reid was convicted on Tuesday, 12 August, 2025 of the offences which took place between 2017 and 2022 in Edinburgh and Aberdeen and involved a man, a woman and two children.

Detective Constable Sara Duncan said: “It’s difficult to comprehend the distress and suffering Reid caused those involved in this case. I hope today’s sentencing offers them some closure.

“He will now face the consequences of his actions in prison.

“If anyone is experiencing or has experienced any type of violence or sexual abuse, we have detectives dedicated to investigating such offences. Please report it and be assured you will be fully supported and listened to.”

Relational Garden workshop with Jacqueline Fletcher at Stockbridge Library

SATURDAY 27th SEPTEMBER 1 – 2pm

Does a bee choose which flower to visit, or does the flower choose its preferred pollinator?

Why do plants produce flowers with different colours, patterns and aromas?

Do roots have relationships with other species too?

Join us in this unique workshop where gardening becomes practice of connection, care and relationship!🌿🌺🍄🦟🐞

#Unearthed

#livingknowledgenetwork

New charity partnership to take action against dementia with giant inflatable brain tour

An exciting new charity partnership will help take action against dementia across Scotland and beyond with a giant inflatable brain tour as part of an innovative brain health programme.

Alzheimer Scotland has been selected as the Charity Partner for 2025/26 by Scotmid, which is Scotland’s largest independent co-operative and includes Semichem, Lake & Dales Coop, Scotmid Funerals and Fosters Funeral Directors.

Studies indicate that up to 45% of dementia cases worldwide may be preventable, often through making simple lifestyle changes.

As part of its ambitious plans for the 12-month partnership, Alzheimer Scotland will spread this prevention message by investing in a giant, walk-through inflatable brain – named Babs the Brain in honour of the late Dame Barbara Windsor, who died in 2020 of Alzheimer’s disease.

”Babs” will embark on a Big Brain Tour of Scotland, visiting stores as well as community venues.

At each stop, people can step inside the inflatable to learn how different areas of the brain work, enjoy interactive activities, and make their own personal brain health pledge.

The partnership will raise vital funds for brain health initiatives across Scotland, while Alzheimer’s Society will provide support to reach communities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The partnership was officially launched at Scotmid’s HQ in Newbridge, Edinburgh, where colleagues and pupils from Hillwood Primary School were among the first to experience Babs the Brain.

Dame Barbara’s widower Scott Mitchell attended the event and has given the project his full support.

Henry Simmons, Alzheimer Scotland’s Chief Executive, said: “Alzheimer Scotland is delighted to be embarking on this charity partnership with Scotmid. We see this as the start of a shared mission to empower people of all ages to protect their brain health, reduce their risk of dementia, and help make sure that nobody faces dementia alone.

“This partnership gives us a unique opportunity to expand the work we do by finding creative ways to empower communities across Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland to look after their brain health.

“Not only will we raise vital funds, we will also leave a lasting legacy beyond this partnership of healthier habits, stronger connections, and better awareness of dementia prevention.”

Karen Scott, Scotmid’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re truly delighted to join forces with Alzheimer Scotland. This partnership isn’t just about fundraising – it’s about coming together with our communities to create real, positive change.

“By working hand in hand, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by dementia across Scotland.”

Scott Mitchell, who was appointed People’s Champion for the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals programme, said: “Babs the Brain and the brain health prevention work Alzheimer Scotland will be doing alongside it is a wonderful legacy for Barbara and something she would be proud to put her name to.

“I have no doubt she would have treated us to one of her famous giggles for the name alone!”

Other initiatives planned for the coming year include in-store ‘brain healthy’ shopping experiences, from recipe cards to highlighting ‘brain-boosting choices’.

Funds raised will also support Alzheimer Scotland’s STARS: My Amazing Brain schools project, which brings brain health education to children and families nationwide.

Council spend ‘supports jobs and spreads community benefits’

Edinburgh School Uniform Bank
Donations to the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank

Hundreds of work placements, apprenticeships and local jobs have been created thanks to Council contracts – with over a quarter of a million pounds secured in community benefits.

In a report considered by the Finance and Resources Committee yesterday (Thursday 18 September), Councillors heard how the city’s procurement programme is helping to boost community wealth building in the city.

The Annual Procurement Report confirms contracts awarded by the Council last year brought in £253,954 in community benefits, supporting 316 work placements, 84 apprentices and 91 local jobs.

With a focus on supporting fair work and local business, almost half of Edinburgh’s spending power has been with SMEs (49%), with support for local suppliers also above the Scottish average (36%). That is alongside 93% of all Council suppliers committed to paying the Living Wage.

Community benefits delivered over the last year include:

  • Construction skills: Working with builders on Council construction projects, opportunities have been delivered in schools, colleges and the local community, helping to promote a new generation of specialist trades needed in Edinburgh like stonemasonry. This year 195 young people are engaged in construction pathways.
  • Local apprenticeships: The Granton Waterfront regeneration alone is supporting 220 apprenticeships and employability services.
  • The Edinburgh School Uniform Bank: With support from Council suppliers, £21,700 has been raised to roll out 20 on-site uniform banks in schools, so that young people can get the basics they need straight away and without any stigma.
  • Food pantry donations: Charities like Fareshare and Cyrenians have worked with suppliers to gather donations for local food banks and pantries.
  • Buddies for ‘New Scots’: Job support, a buddy scheme and English language teaching have been delivered thanks to 115 hours of volunteering by suppliers with The Welcoming project.
  • The Million Trees Project: Contractors have helped to plant new trees in contribution to Edinburgh’s Million Tree target, with contractor Anderson Strathearn planting 60 trees on the side of Arthur’s Seat to save 60 tonnes of carbon.
  • Community clean ups: Volunteers have worked with the Water of Leith Conservation Trust to carry out community clean ups, with CMS sending 25 volunteers to tidy waste in the Water of Leith.

Councillor Mandy Watt, Finance and Resources Convener, said: “We’re using our spending power to create local job opportunities and support Edinburgh-based businesses as far as we can. This is bringing fantastic community benefits, helping us to address issues like poverty and climate change while creating good places to live.

“This latest report shows just how much progress has been made. The difference we can make when we work together with contractors and other community organisations is huge.

“I’m keen to build on this even further to keep spend local and with Living Wage suppliers, to create even more good quality jobs and local opportunities.”

John McKinney, Scottish Traditional Building Forum, said: “We have been working with the City of Edinburgh Council to coordinate community benefit activities in construction to maximise their long-term impact for the benefit of young people and businesses in the city.

“We have made significant progress in the last year with the creation and delivery of a construction pathway piloted in schools and using community benefits. We have been working on developing and delivering this programme for the last three years and are looking forward to working with the Council to roll it out across the city.”

Julia Grindley, Trustee on the Board of the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank, said: “Donations facilitated by community benefits have significantly aided Edinburgh’s most disadvantaged families by supporting the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank to provide school uniforms and essentials, helping children overcome barriers to education, inclusion and participation.“

UK fighter jets begin NATO air defence missions to bolster European security

Royal Air Force Typhoon patrolled the skies over Poland as part of NATO’s Eastern Sentry mission

Royal Air Force Typhoons have flown their first NATO air defence sortie over Poland as part of NATO’s Eastern Sentry, strengthening the Alliance’s defences on its eastern flank following a reckless Russian drone incursion.

Two British fighter jets took off from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire on Friday night, supported by an RAF Voyager aircraft, to patrol Polish skies and deter and defend against aerial threats from Russia, including drones. They returned safely to the UK early Saturday morning.

This first operational mission follows the reckless and dangerous incursion by Russian drones into Polish sovereign airspace – the most significant violation of NATO airspace by President Putin to date since his illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine – and further breaches of NATO airspace by Russian jets and a drone over the past week.

On Monday, the Defence Secretary visited RAF Brize Norton, home of the Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft, to announce the UK’s contribution. He met with some of the RAF personnel who are among more than 400 personnel set to directly support these missions.  

The UK operation comes as the UK marks the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain this weekend, with the UK and Poland sharing a poignant history. Just as during the Battle of Britain, when Polish pilots came to the aid of the UK forming one of the largest and most successful foreign contingents in the RAF, the UK is now standing side by side with the UK’s Polish allies in the face of Russian aggression.

The UK commitment follows last week’s North Atlantic Council meeting where Allies expressed full solidarity with Poland after it requested consultations under Article 4 of the Washington Treaty.

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: “RAF Typhoons have now flown their first air defence mission over Poland, sending a clear signal: NATO airspace will be defended.

“I’m proud of the outstanding British pilots and air crew who took part in this successful operation to defend our Allies from reckless Russian aggression.

“This weekend, as we honour the heroism of the Battle of Britain generation, it is especially poignant that RAF pilots and crew are once again standing shoulder to shoulder with Poland in defence of our shared security – making us secure at home and strong abroad.”

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth, said: “Our partnership with NATO has never been stronger. This sortie marks the RAF’s first operational mission on Eastern Sentry, reinforcing the UK’s steadfast commitment to NATO and its allies.

“RAF Typhoons, supported by Voyager air-air refuelling aircraft, joined allies along the eastern flank to bolster NATO’s defence and deterrence.

“We remain agile, integrated, and ready to project airpower at range.”

This new era of threat – exemplified by Russia’s intensifying airspace violations – requires a new era for Defence, and the government is delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War, to 2.6% of GDP by April 2027. The UK’s national security , the foundation of the government’s Plan for Change, starts with an unwavering commitment to NATO and Euro-Atlantic security.

The UK’s commitment to NATO is unshakeable. British Armed Forces continue to play a leading role in the Alliance, from the Army’s continuing presence in Estonia as part of NATO’s Forward Land Forces, to the RAF’s enduring air policing missions in Europe.

Over the past 18 months, the RAF has deployed Typhoons to both Poland and Romania to protect NATO airspace.

Typhoons are equipped with advanced sensors and infrared-guided ASRAAM missiles (Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missiles), making them ideally suited to detecting, monitoring and intercepting potential aerial threats.

Missing girl: Have you seen Pantica?

Officers are continuing to appeal for information to help trace a 12-year-old missing from Perth. Pantica Sali, also known as Garofita, was reported missing on Friday, 19 September, 2025 from the Victoria Street area.

It is understood she travelled to Edinburgh and was last seen in the city’s St James Quarter, around 1pm on Wednesday, 17 September, 2025.

She is described as being around 5ft 6in tall, of slim build, with long, dark hair.

When last seen, she was wearing a black dress, white trainers and hooped earrings. She was also carrying a supermarket carrier bag.

Inspector Jill Dolan said: “Concerns are growing for Pantica’s welfare as time passes and extensive enquiries to trace her are ongoing.

“We are speaking to relatives and friends, carrying out door to door enquiries and reviewing CCTV footage in our efforts to trace her and we continue to ask for the help of the public.

“I would appeal to anyone who has seen Pantica or who has any information on her whereabouts to contact us.

“Additionally, we would ask Pantica herself to get in touch to let us know she is safe.”

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 1182 of Friday, 19 September, 2025.

Salvation Army Edinburgh Earl Grey charity shop shortlisted for prestigious national award

Winners of the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards will be decided by a public vote

Salvation Army Edinburgh Earl Grey charity shop has been shortlisted for the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards.  The winner will be decided by a public vote, which is now open. 

The Awards, run by the Charity Retail Association, are now in their second year and are a celebration of the impact that charity shops have within their local communities. For many, charity shops are more than a place to pick up a second-hand bargain – they are community hubs that employ local people, help volunteers find friendship, and offer support to those with first-hand experience of the causes they support.   

More than 5,000 nominations were received this year and, as part of the process, people were asked to share why they were nominating their favourite shop.

When asked what makes the Earl Grey shop so special, members of the public said:

“The vibe in this shop is always so upbeat and welcoming whether you are there to shop, looking for help or just to say hello. Everyone is greeted with respect and welcomed like an old friend.” 

“Best charity shop in Edinburgh! Always loads of new items, well laid out and merchandised, and the friendliest helpful staff always dancing and singing no matter how busy it is.” 

Margaret Rouzet, shop manager said: “Thank you so much, we are absolutely delighted!! 

“We are now more determined than ever to win the whole competition, not only for us but for every Salvation Army shop out there whose staff and volunteers put so much work and dedication into every day.”

Robin Osterley OBE, Chief Executive of the Charity Retail Association, said: “Congratulations to all the shops that made the shortlist and thank you to everyone who made a nomination.

“The level of support the Awards continue to inspire highlights just how much charity shops mean to their local communities. We are now calling on the public to cast their votes and decide which shops will be crowned winners in 12 areas across the UK.”

People can vote for their favourite shop now, here:

https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8448060/Vote-in-The-UK-s-Favourite-Charity-Shop-Awards-2025

Voting closes at midnight on 2 October.

To see all the shortlisted shops and for more details about the Awards, visit: https://charityretail.org.uk/the-uks-favourite-charity-shop

Scotland’s Climate Action Secretary to attend Climate Week NYC

Visit is ‘opportunity to highlight role of devolved nations in driving climate action’

Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin will undertake a series of engagements in New York as part of Climate Week NYC.

Climate Week NYC brings together global leaders, businesses and civil society to address climate change and promote sustainable solutions.

In recognition of Scotland’s leadership positions as Regions4 President and European co-chair of the Under2 Coalition, Ms Martin will attend a series of meetings with member representatives as part of ongoing work to strengthen the influence of devolved, state and regional governments within international climate discussions.

Attendance at Climate Week will also be a chance to share knowledge and experience on emissions reductions and the need for a just transition with others, as well as action on creating climate resilience and enabling real, lasting and fair change across Scotland.

Speaking ahead of her visit, Ms Martin said: “No community is safe from the impacts of climate change, but the burden isn’t shared equally – with the poorest and most vulnerable suffering the most.

“Climate Week NYC gives Scotland the chance to shape the global conversation on climate finance and climate justice.

“As President of Regions4 and European co-chair of the Under2 Coalition, Scotland is pushing for more ambitious climate action – and we’re making sure that the voices of the Global South, especially women and young people, are heard loud and clear.

“I look forward to the opportunity to further build the influence of devolved, states and regional governments within the international climate debate with a strong focus on capacity building.”

The Cabinet Secretary’s programme will see her addressing the Under2 Global Ministerial Session on Monday 22 September as European Co-Chair of the Under2 Coalition. 

She will also represent Scotland as President of Regions4, convening a roundtable of network members on Tuesday 23 September to inform and develop the network’s preparations for COP30. 

On Wednesday 24 September the Scottish Government will co-host the livestreamed launch of a case study on the Scottish Climate Intelligence Service, in collaboration with ICLEI and Climate View.

The Cabinet Secretary will deliver opening remarks and take questions during a panel discussion emphasising the importance of and Scotland’s pioneering work on multilevel governance.