WELLBEING IN LEITH GETS LEITHCHOOSES 2026 FUNDING BOOST
LeithChooses is delighted to announce that applications are now open for funding bids for community projects across the wider Leith area!
Organisations can apply for up to £5,000 for a project that ‘enhances well-being for Leithers’ and applications will be put to the public vote on 24th January 2026 at Leith Community Centre, Kirkgate at the much-loved LeithChooses Community Vote Day.
This year saw 11 new projects receive funding, following an exceptionally busy vote day, including a new children’s running group, summer holiday workshops for children and parents, tea dances for seniors, a playground mural and a multicultural celebration day.
LeithChooses Chair, Councillor Susan Rae, said “Many organisations from Leith have benefited from our participatory budget fund in the past, and we are excited to see what innovative projects Leith groups come up with this time, on the theme of ‘well-being in Leith’.
“LeithChooses is entering its 15th year and we never fail to be impressed by the enthusiasm and resilience of Leithers.”
“We are really excited to see what ideas come forward’ said Councillor Jack Caldwell, also on the Steering Group.
“From Newhaven to Broughton, Constitution Street to Hillside, LeithChooses has funded many groups and activities and this year should be no different.”
Sally Millar, Leith Links Community Council and Steering Group member, stressed the need to get applications in soon. “Participatory Budgeting allows communities to have a direct say in how community budgets are spent and to choose priorities for spending.
“The voting day is a great chance for organisations and the public to meet others who live, work, study or volunteer in the area. Get those applications in!”
UK aid funding boost to support Ukraine’s emergency energy needs and help vulnerable communities targeted by Putin’s aggression
Foreign Secretary to meet President Zelenskyy, Ukrainian Ministers to boost UK and Ukraine relationship, because Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s security
She will show unwavering support and hear from the Ukrainian people living through Russia’s aggression
Energy infrastructure and targeted communities in Ukraine will get new support to build resilience and support thanks to vital UK aid, as Yvette Cooper visits Ukraine in her first trip as Foreign Secretary.
In a show of solidarity with the Ukrainian people who are on the frontline in defending their country and standing up against Russian aggression in Europe, the Foreign Secretary is clear that Ukraine is a priority for the UK.
After a summer of Russian delay tactics at peace talks, weeks of increased attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure, and ahead of a difficult winter, her visit will reaffirm that this support is ironclad.
On Tuesday, Russia’s unprecedented violation of a NATO airspace in Poland showed a complete disregard for sovereignty and peace, following Russia’s delay tactics at peace talks throughout the summer. The Foreign Secretary will underscore the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine during her visit and make clear that the defence of Ukraine against Russian aggression is vital to the security of the UK and the whole of Europe.
The Foreign Secretary is due to visit the Cabinet of Ministers building in Kyiv, which was significantly damaged in recent Russia strikes. She will also visit one of the residential buildings destroyed by Russia’s brutal attacks on Ukraine, meeting families and children to hear first-hand their traumatising experiences of living through Putin’s illegal invasion.
The Foreign Secretary has also announced £142 million in UK aid, supporting Ukraine through winter and into next year.
£100 million will provide vital support for humanitarian assistance to help civilians in frontline communities, protect the most vulnerable and provide emergency support for those impacted by Russia’s continued attacks. This will include repairing critical water and heating systems, and helping to support livelihoods and jobs and strengthen Ukrainian resilience in the fourth winter of Russia’s illegal war.
£42 million will help carry out vital repairs to the electricity transmission network and put in place critical protection for gas and power infrastructure as winter starts to bite.
Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: “I have chosen to visit Ukraine in my first few days as Foreign Secretary because Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s security.
“I am clear that the UK’s support is unwavering and stronger than ever as we know the long-term security and stability threat that Russian aggression poses not just to Ukraine, but to the whole of Europe and to all of us here in the UK.
“Through our ongoing military support, lifesaving funding announced today, the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership and our ongoing leadership of the Coalition of the Willing, we will be by Ukraine’s side to achieve a just and lasting peace, and in friendship for years to come.
“Putin’s bombardment of Ukrainian civilians, his stalling and delaying in internationally-backed peace talks, and his blatant disregard for human life must end.”
Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s national security, which is a central part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change.
As part of her visit, she will also meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, Foreign Minister Sybiha and Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko.
As part of her discussions with Foreign Minister Sybiha, she will also discuss shared priorities as part of the UK-Ukraine Strategic Dialogue, which will culminate in a meeting between the Prime Minister and the President.
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is delighted to announce that Heather Lyon from Edinburgh, Scotland will be taking part in the prestigious Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition which takes place in Sao Paulo, Brazil from 11-19 October 2025. At this annual competition, young dancers from around the world will come together for a week of dance, to win competition prizes and scholarships.
Heather age 18 started ballet at the age of three in her hometown Edinburgh, Scotland, and it soon became her passion. She took RAD ballet classes at a local dance school, KS Dance Academy.
Currently studying at Northern Ballet School, England Heather watched others from previous years benefit from attending The Fonteyn competition. Heather is delighted and grateful to be a part of this year’s competition and excited for all the challenges and opportunities it will offer.
“I am so excited to take part in this competition and represent my home country of Scotland”, says Heather.
Named in honour of RAD’s longest-serving president, Dame Margot Fonteyn DBE, The Fonteyn is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet competitions in the world, representing the pinnacle of achievement for young dancers trained in the RAD syllabus.
Beginning in 1931, the competition has toured the globe and is dedicated to promoting dance, providing educational experiences and recognising excellence in young ballet dancers internationally. A launch pad for a professional career, past winners have become professional dancers with companies worldwide and enjoyed long-lasting careers in the arts.
At The Fonteyn, candidates compete for a chance to win the coveted Genee Gold medal supported by Freed of London, Silver and Bronze medals and cash prizes, and for the Dame Margot Fonteyn Audience Choice Award, Choreographic Award and Musicality Award.
Alongside the prizes, candidates have the chance to be awarded scholarships to some of the most prestigious ballet schools across the globe including English National Ballet School, Houston Ballet Academy and The Royal Ballet School. F
Learners from primary and special schools across Edinburgh have taken part in the Outdoor Learning Challenge, Scotland’s largest outdoor learning event.
Over 2,000 P6 children took part in a range of sustainability focused activities at Holyrood Park across two days on Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10 September.
The event was organised and led by the City of Edinburgh Council’s Outdoor Learning Team and delivered in partnership with Dynamic Earth Science Centre and Planetarium, Historic Environment Scotland Ranger Service in Holyrood Park, and Moray House School of Education and Sport, University of Edinburgh.
More than 25 different partner providers contributed a huge diversity of outdoor activities to make the event happen.
Designed to offer learners a chance to try a range of outdoor learning activities and experiences, the event also aimed to inspire and demonstrate to teachers how they can integrate outdoor learning into the curriculum.
This is the first time the event has run since 2019 and this year it focused on the theme of Learning for Sustainability. Activities included orienteering, archaeological excavation, ropes/tents/knots challenges, learning about geography, biodiversity, conservation and environmental art. Each group of pupils attends three 40-minute activity sessions.
The event supports the delivery of outdoor learning through the Curriculum for Excellence and Learning for Sustainability as a national priority as well as raising awareness of the twin nature and climate crises.
Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convener, said: “The Outdoor Learning Challenge is a truly unique event that brings together a large number of our learners to experience an exciting and action-packed day outside of the traditional classroom learning environment.
“This year’s theme was Learning for sustainability, and it has been fantastic to see the next generation being inspired in an outdoor setting and really engaging with the range of activities on offer.
“A key aim of the event is to showcase to school staff how they can incorporate outdoor learning into their everyday teaching and I’m confident that those who attended will go back to school inspired and full of ideas.
“Thanks to the partners and providers who brought their skill and expertise to Holyrood Park for a brilliant couple of days for all involved.”
Conor Ellis, Science Learning and Engagement Director at Dynamic Earth Science Centre and Planetarium, said:Connection to nature is so important in promoting positive health and wellbeing and stewardship of the planet.
“I’m so delighted to see the Outdoor Learning Challenge return and know that the event will provide fantastic opportunities for thousands of the capital’s children and young people across the two days!”
Capital locals urged to seize chance to plan ahead while supporting charity
EDINBURGH residents will have the chance to write a professionally prepared will at no charge, thanks to a nationwide initiative encouraging people to put their affairs in order and consider leaving a legacy to charity.
The scheme, which runs from September to November, allows participating solicitors to provide simple wills at no cost to clients.
Among those taking part locally is solicitor and estate agency Ralph Sayer, supporting the national Will Aid campaign and providing simple wills at no cost to clients.
Kimberley Mackay (above), Partner in Ralph Sayers’ Private Client department, said: “We speak to people every day who’ve been putting off writing a will.
“For many, it’s an emotional hurdle, most of us don’t like talking about our own death. For others, it’s the perception that legal services are complicated or expensive, but this scheme removes that barrier.
“It’s completely free for people to take part. In return, they are invited to make a voluntary donation to Will Aid. It is also a great opportunity for people to think about leaving a gift to a charity close to their heart in their will.”
“This is a meaningful introduction to our service in a professional, approachable way that will give people access to our expert team offering the very best legal advice.
“Taking this simple step can save huge stress for your family, and it can be the start of a trusted relationship with your solicitor, someone who can support you throughout life’s changes.
“We’re here to help and there is no such thing as a stupid question, and we want to ensure that those who come to us feel respected and heard.”
Approximately 223,000 adults in Edinburgh currently do not have a will, reflecting a wider UK trend where more than half of adults lack a valid will — often leaving loved ones facing lengthy complications, legal uncertainty and unnecessary stress.
Those who are not married face some of the greatest risks, as partners have no automatic legal rights to inherit, regardless of how long they have been together or whether they share a home or children.
Ralph Sayer will waive its usual will-writing fees, which can range from £400 to £600, meaning the service is free to those using the Will Aid Scheme.
People are encouraged to consider leaving a gift to charity in their will, whether that’s a modest sum equivalent to the usual cost of preparing a will, or a larger legacy that reflects their wishes.
Clients will receive a full one-hour consultation during which their needs, family circumstances and estate structure will be discussed in depth with its Private Client team.
Will Aid, which has been running since 1998, supports eight UK charities: Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, Crisis, NSPCC, Shelter, SCIAF and Trócaire. The campaign has raised millions over the years through people choosing to leave a gift in their will.
Ivan Ralph, Chief Executive Officer at Ralph Sayer, said: “We offer a personalised service for everyday people. “Whether you’re a new homeowner, part of a blended family, or just haven’t got round to it yet, this is a chance to get something important in place, and know you’ve been properly looked after.
“This is also a simple way to benefit charities doing life-changing work across the UK, not by giving money now, but by considering a gift in your will. Even a small legacy can make a meaningful difference, and for many it’s a chance to leave behind a lasting impact.
“We want people to know that planning ahead doesn’t need to be daunting. Our team is here to guide you through the process with clarity and compassion.”
Appointments will include a draft will and clear next steps provided by Ralph Sayer, with the opportunity to extend support for more detailed planning if required.
Kimberley added: “Most people are unaware of what should be included in a will, even things like who looks after your pets or who gets sentimental items can become a source of stress.
“For blended families or those with children from previous relationships, it can get really complicated if there’s nothing written down. Those at greatest risk are those who are not in marriages, if anything happens, your partner could be left with nothing.”
Ralph Sayer’s close-knit, family-run team of solicitors, paralegals and estate agents work side by side with a shared goal, to deliver clear, consistent and first-class service to every client.
Since launching in 2022, the firm has been proudly based in Edinburgh while supporting clients all across Scotland, offering trusted insight with a growing reach.
With a reputation for shaking up the market, Ralph Sayer is known for its transparent fees, down-to-earth advice, and refreshingly personal approach.
At Poppyscotland, volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Without them, the Scottish Poppy Appeal simply could not happen.
Their dedication keeps our work visible in communities across Scotland and ensures that every donation translates into real, practical support for the Armed Forces community. As we prepare for the 2025 Appeal, we need you to step forward and be part of something truly meaningful.
Our biggest annual fundraising campaign depends on Poppy Appeal Area Organisers (AOs) across the country to coordinate collections in their local communities this October, leading up to Remembrance Sunday on 9 November 2025.
This year, we are looking for more AOs in Edinburgh and East Lothian to help deliver this vital Appeal. As an AO, you’ll play a key role in your community by distributing poppies and collection tins to busy shops, bars, and local venues, and where possible, arranging collections in supermarkets, shopping centres, and transport hubs. You’ll also meet new people and act as the friendly, local ‘face’ of Poppyscotland.
Richard Todd, National Poppy Appeal Manager at Poppyscotland, said: “The Scottish Poppy Appeal is vital to our work. It raises funds that enable us to provide year-round support to veterans, serving members of the Armed Forces and their families.
“Last year, our welfare team helped more than 800 individuals and families with needs ranging from housing and finance to mobility and mental health. We also reached many more through funding provided to partner organisations such as Legion Scotland, SACRO, and the Forces Employment Charity.
“The quality of our support is of the highest standard, but none of this would be possible without the dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteers. Every year, they line the streets of Scotland with their iconic red tins, raising vital funds from the public.
“That’s why we are calling on anyone willing and able to join our team of AOs this year. Full training and support will be provided by our staff and most importantly, you’ll have the chance to make a real difference.”
For more information on becoming an Area Organiser, please visit:
The Craigroyston CYFC management committee would like to invite you all, to our annual general meeting. It will be held at the club on the 4th of October 2025 at 9.30am. Space will be tight so please arrive in plenty time.
All required info is in the below notice. If anybody has any question regarding the meeting, please reach out via the email address in the notice.
TOURISM businesses from Edinburgh and the Lothians are being invited to sign up to an event at which they can do business with global tour operators, travel advisors and Destination Management Companies representing Scotland’s most important visitor markets.
VisitScotland Connect 2026, supported by Visit Glasgow, will be held for the first time in the city next year at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) and registration is open. The event is a key part of the national tourism and event organisation’s activity to drive the visitor economy by increasing Scotland’s share of global tourism.
More than 50 tourism businesses from Edinburgh and the Lothians attended this year’s event at P&J Live in Aberdeen, where Scottish tourism businesses met with travel intermediaries. These included tour operators and travel agents who plan trips to Scotland for their clients across the globe, including in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the UK domestic market.
These operators help promote a spread of destinations and can ensure Edinburgh and the Lothians are included in travel itineraries for the coming years and that the holiday offering continues to evolve and fit the demands of the modern traveller.
VisitScotland’s flagship travel trade event is designed to provide a targeted platform for trade-ready Scottish businesses – including accommodation, experiences and attractions – to connect with domestic and international travel trade buyers.
Pietro Cecchini, Head of Business Development at The Scotch Whisky Experience, said: “We are 100% committed to VisitScotland Connect, which lies at the heart of our annual B2B sales and marketing strategy.
“As Scotland’s leading travel trade event, it has proven itself, year after year, to be the most cost-effective platform for delivering annual business growth, by introducing us to prospective new clients, international and domestic, and enabling us to catch up in person with existing partners and friends from across our global tourism network.”
Claire Dutton, Tourism Officer at East Lothian Council, said: “Scotland Connect provides Visit East Lothian the perfect platform to speak to global travel trade operators including key overseas markets to our area, we were delighted we were able to bring along ten businesses this year who could establish their own connections with the trade.
“We spoke to a number of operators and have provided a range of assistance since the event to those looking to book their trips to East Lothian. It is important we continue to promote East Lothian to the travel trade, and we will definitely be returning next year.”
New figures* show that this year’s event, which was attended by almost 250 tourism businesses and over 270 travel intermediaries, resulted in bookings worth an estimated £8.6 million to Scotland.
A survey conducted after the event found that every Scottish tourism business who responded anticipated generating sales for their business as a result of attending. Additionally, 91% of travel trade buyers said they anticipate introducing, expanding, updating or changing their programme or products as a result.
A total of 8,200 meetings were held – up by 1,200 on 2024 – and 50 of the Scottish tourism businesses who attended the event were new to VisitScotland Connect this year.
Figures show Scotland welcomed a record number of international visitors in 2024. With half of all overseas visitors booking their trips through tour operators or travel advisors, the event has been credited with helping Scottish suppliers get their experiences and services in front of global audiences.
In addition to the event in Glasgow, a specially curated programme of familiarisation (fam) trips will be organised to showcase the best of Scotland’s tourism offering.
Highlighting products with a strong emphasis on sustainability, these fam trips allow travel trade representatives to experience first-hand everything from local culture and food and drink to rail and public transport, luxury and outdoor adventures and wildlife at a variety of different destinations.
Neil Christison, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “VisitScotland Connect is an integral part of our work to help more Scottish tourism and events businesses to internationalise and capitalise on growing international interest.
“Tourism is vital to Edinburgh and the Lothians, and I would encourage trade-ready tourism businesses in the region to sign up for 2026.
“According to Scottish Growth Sector Statistics, the total overnight spend by international and domestic visitors to the Edinburgh and Lothians in 2024 was £2.7 billion. This stimulates investment, creates jobs in communities across the region, enhances Scotland’s global reputation, and boosts visitors’ and our own health and wellbeing.
“This is so important as the industry continues to face challenges as a result of the cost of living and the cost of doing business.
“I was pleased to see Edinburgh and Lothians tourism businesses attending this year to showcase this unique and captivating region to a global audience.
“Encouraging visitors to explore the region all year round and to spend more money in our local communities is vital for the sustainable growth of the visitor economy.”
VisitScotland Connect will be held on 15 and 16 April 2026, at the SEC in Glasgow and is for businesses who are ready to work with travel trade.
Trade-ready Scottish businesses can register to participate via the registration link on the Connect event website.
The service provides dedicated support to 13–18-year-olds diagnosed with cancer across Scotland, running community groups and outreach projects for young people navigating their cancer diagnosis.
Each year, the Teenage Cancer Trust organises a residential week to give young people a change of scenery and a chance to connect, with Crieff Hydro Hotel proudly hosting the event for the past three years.
With the hotel offering a wide range of exciting activities, including the Action Glen Outdoor Activity Park, alpaca trekking and horse riding, it was an ideal setting for the young people.
The youngsters also stayed in the resort’s self-catering lodges, giving them both independence and the opportunity to cook together during their stay.
With 12 young people attending this year’s event, the residential weekend provided a vital opportunity for connection, confidence-building and peer support in a safe and uplifting environment.
Conor Smart, Teenage Cancer Trust Youth Support Coordinator, said: “We support young people who’ve undergone cancer treatment.
“While their experiences with cancer may differ, at our residential they’re able to connect with other young people and have therapeutic conversations, all while having fun and enjoying the excellent facilities available at the hotel.
“For many attendees, the stay also marks their first trip away from home, or even from their families, since their diagnosis, so it gives them a huge confidence boost and helps with independence too.”
The number of attendees at the residential weekend has steadily grown since its inception in 2023, reflecting the programme’s success.
One young participant said: “Being surrounded by people in similar situations can encourage you to try things you would otherwise have been scared to do.
“I went swimming for the first time since I got my port fitted over 3 years ago.”
These moments not only helped the young people gain confidence, but created cherished memories that it’s hoped will last a lifetime.
Stephen Leckie, CEO and Chairman of the Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, said: “It’s always a pleasure to welcome the young people from the Teenage Cancer Trust Youth Support Coordinator Service.
“Their visits are a powerful reminder of the impact shared experiences can have and we’re proud to support their journey and see how much they have gained from their time here at the hotel.”
Only THREE more days until Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre’s big 30th birthday party celebrations!
All are welcome whether you are 1 or 100, and most activities are FREE. And despite the saying, there’s even a free lunch between 11.30-1.30!
Oh and did we mention the bouncy castle, apple juicing, drumming, puppet show, art workshops, bug hunt, Dr Bike fixing, footie, bake sale, tombola and prizes? Bring cash if you want to win something or buy some amazing jam or cakes!
between 11.30-1.30!