Heatwave warning: Drivers could be using their air con wrong

Drivers are being told they have been using the air conditioning in their car all wrong as the weather heats up across the UK.

The motoring experts at LeaseLoco.com have revealed that air conditioning for short car journeys is actually ineffective and have shared six ways to use the feature efficiently.

Using air conditioning on short journeys can actually increase a car’s fuel consumption by up to 10%.*

This is because air conditioning can take a while to circulate properly as the system needs time to cool down the air that is going to be pushed through the vents. 

If your car has been sitting in the sun it can take even longer to cool everything down due to the warmer temperatures.

The experts state that when driving at speeds under 40mph on short journeys, rolling down the window is the best and quickest way to cool down in the car and won’t use up any fuel.

Going faster than 40mph with the windows open can create a lot of drag, causing your car to work harder.

John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco.com said: “When you turn the AC on in your car it can take a while for the system to get going because it needs to make the refrigerant cold. This is the fluid that is used to cool the air.

“Once the fluid is cool, it’s then blown through the vents to cool the car down but replacing all of that warm air can take some time. It can take even longer if your car has been parked in the sun previously. 

“This makes your car hotter and means the air conditioning has to work even harder in cooling the car down which is why it’s best to park in the sun or use sunshades. 

“If you’re on a short journey and you’re driving under 40mph, you’re actually better off just opening the window to cool down rather than waiting for the aircon to kick in. It’ll be much more efficient and you won’t be using any more fuel.

“If you’re driving in an area that exceeds 40mph then you’ll want to switch to using air conditioning. Driving at higher speeds with your windows open can create a drag which will make your engine work much harder and will ultimately cause your car to use more fuel.”

6 ways to use your air conditioning efficiently:

Air out the car first

If you have been parked in the sun and your car is particularly warm, consider rolling the windows down for a bit first before putting your air conditioning on. This will cool down the car, which means the aircon will have less work to do and will begin to fill your car with cool air quicker.

Start driving

Aircon works best when your engine is running so start the car up and begin driving for a few minutes before turning it on.

Use the recirculation button

Pressing the recirculation button in your car while the aircon is on will mean that your car will reuse the cool air already inside instead of constantly pulling new, hot air from outside. 

Don’t set it to maximum straight away

When you’re hot and bothered, it can be tempting to turn up the aircon on full blast in the hopes of cooling down, but this is actually much less efficient. Instead, start the aircon on medium and gradually increase it.

Keep the windows up

If you’re driving with the aircon on then it’s important to keep your windows closed. Having them open means that all of that cool air is escaping, which makes your aircon less effective and causes your car to use more fuel.

Park in the shade if possible

Where possible, try to park your car out of the sun and in a shady spot instead. This will help keep your car cooler so that when you get into it, the aircon has less work to do. If your driveway naturally gets a lot of sun, consider using a sunshade on your car.

LeaseLoco is the UK’s biggest car lease comparison website, making it super quick and easy for drivers to filter and compare millions of deals from the UK’s leading car leasing companies to best suit their needs.

Mobile messaging apps removed from Scottish government devices

Updated policy published

Mobile messaging apps, including WhatsApp, are being removed from Scottish Government devices as a new policy comes into immediate effect.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes committed to updating the government’s mobile messaging app policy following the publication of an externally-led review by former Channel Islands data protection commissioner Emma Martins in December 2024.

The policy applies to all Scottish Government employees including contractors, senior civil servants, special advisers and Ministers, and states that mobile messaging apps and non-corporate communication channels will not be permitted on government devices.

A small number of business areas will take part in a time-bound and limited transition period until the end of 2025. This includes areas responding to emergencies such as wildfires or for matters of safety and security.

Ms Forbes said: “We are setting out a clear approach to ending government use of mobile messaging apps, and this will support wider work to deliver on our commitment to openness and transparency.

“The use of mobile messaging apps increased during the pandemic as staff worked remotely in unprecedented and difficult circumstances. Having reflected on our working practices, we are now implementing changes to the use of such apps.

“This follows on from actions to implement other recommendations from Ms Martins’ externally-led review including updating our hybrid working policy.

“I want to reassure the public that it is a priority of this government to maintain secure and searchable data, ensuring compliance with all records management rules. We will continue to act to ensure our data policies are robust, especially considering technological advances.”

Dog Safety Warning Ahead of BBQ-Filled Weekend Heatwave

With a UK heatwave forecast for this weekend with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees in some areas of the UK, in classic British style, BBQs are likely to be ready and raring to go.

But while the sun may be welcome, Dog Friendly Retreats is urging dog owners to take care, because what’s fun for us can be unexpectedly dangerous for our four-legged companions.

Barbecue food and extreme heat are a risky combination for dogs, and with pets expected to join in outdoor festivities this weekend, now is the time for awareness and prevention.

 BBQ Foods That Can Seriously Harm Your Dog

Cooked bones (especially chicken)
One of the biggest BBQ hazards are cooked bones that can become brittle and can splinter into sharp shards when chewed, leading to choking or life-threatening internal injuries. Never give your dog leftovers from the grill.

Skewers and kebab sticks
Whether wood or metal, these are incredibly dangerous if swallowed. Dogs can easily grab a half-eaten kebab off a plate or BBQ tray and the stick could puncture their throat or stomach which is not only incredibly dangerous, but could be costly at the vets.

Greasy, fatty meats
Sausages, burgers, ribs, and lamb chops may be barbecue staples, but for dogs, they can cause stomach upsets or even pancreatitis, a painful, potentially fatal condition triggered by fatty foods.

Marinated, seasoned, or spicy meat
BBQ favourites are often coated in rubs or sauces containing onion, garlic, salt, or spices, all of which are toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms from vomiting to anaemia.

Burnt scraps and charred food
While you might toss a burnt sausage to the dog as a treat, overcooked meat can be tough to digest and potentially contain carcinogenic compounds. It’s best to keep it away from pets entirely.

Alcohol and BBQ sauce spills
Pints on the grass or spilt sticky sauces might not seem like a big deal, but alcohol is toxic to dogs even in small quantities, and many sauces contain ingredients like onion or xylitol (an artificial sweetener that is deadly to dogs).

Hot Weather = Hidden Dangers for Dogs

The barbecue itself isn’t the only risk this weekend. With temperatures set to soar, dogs are at serious risk of overheating, especially breeds with thick coats or short noses like bulldogs, pugs, and spaniels.

Watch out for:

  • Hot patios and garden decking – Dogs’ paw pads can burn on sun-heated surfaces.
  • Dehydration – Ensure your dog has access to cool, fresh water at all times.
  • Heatstroke – Symptoms include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, confusion, and collapse. This is a medical emergency and needs immediate vet attention.
  • Cars and conservatories – Never leave your dog in a parked car or enclosed space as temperatures can reach fatal levels within minutes, even with a window cracked.

Josh Williams, owner of Dog Friendly Retreats, comments:

“Barbecues are such a key part of summer, but they come with a lot of hidden hazards for dogs. Between hot weather and dropped food, it only takes a moment for something to go wrong. Whether it’s a skewer left unattended or a guest offering scraps, it’s important to keep a close eye on your dog and educate others too.”

Safe BBQ Snacks to Share with Your Dog

Your dog can still be part of the fun – just safely! Here are a few dog-friendly BBQ options:

  • Plain, boneless, skinless chicken or turkey – A lean protein treat, as long as it’s unseasoned and thoroughly cooked.
  • Cucumber or carrot sticks – Cool, crunchy, and hydrating.
  • Apple slices (no seeds) – A sweet and fibre-rich fruit option.
  • Blueberries or strawberries – Packed with antioxidants and safe in moderation.

Dougie MacLean to Lead Edinburgh International Festival’s Opening Weekend Big Singalong

2025 FESTIVAL PROGRAMME RUNS FROM 1–24 AUGUST 2025

eif.co.uk / @edintfest

  • For the opening weekend of the International Festival, Scottish national treasure Dougie MacLean headlines free event The Big Singalong with iconic song Caledonia, joined by a range of community choirs led by choir director Stephen Deazle
  • Famed Scottish folk musician Donald Shaw leads The Ceilidh Sessions for an afternoon of music and dance inspired by the Gaelic ceilidh tradition
  • Festival Director Nicola Benedetti and jazz pianist Joe Webb lead improvisational music sessions alongside up-and-coming young musicians in The Hub

A lineup of world-class musicians at the forefront of their fields are today added to the Edinburgh International Festival programme to lead performances this August that celebrate the joy of music-making.

Highlights include Scottish music icon Dougie MacLean headlining free event The Big Singalong, celebrated folk musician Donald Shaw leading The Ceilidh Sessions with traditional Gaelic music and dance, and Festival Director Nicola Benedetti and jazz pianist Joe Webb leading improvisational sessions featuring emerging young talent. 

In a free, outdoor event to mark the start of festival season in Edinburgh, one of Scotland’s most beloved musical figures, Dougie MacLean will lead The Big Singalongon Sunday 3 August.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Princes Street Gardens, the Perthshire-born singer-songwriter and composer behind the iconic anthem Caledonia will start a mass singalong that welcomes all voices, curated by Edinburgh’s Love Music Community Choir Artistic Director, Stephen Deazley. 

Choirs include The Phoenix Choir, the Maryhill Integration Project Joyous Choir and the Westerton Male Voice Choir. Tickets are free and available at midday at www.eif.co.uk.

The joy of music making continues the next day with The Ceilidh Sessions, also in Princes Street Gardens. Scottish tradition meets Baroque flair, as Norwegian folk ensemble Barokksolistene join forces with Donald Shaw, known as founding member of Scottish folk legends Capercaillie, accompanied by his ceilidh band.

Alongside beloved ceilidh tunes like the “The Gay Gordons” and “Strip the Willow”, Barokksolistene add Baroque music, sea shanties and alehouse tunes to the mix for a truly international afternoon of music and dance. Both events are presented with support from EventScotland, part of VisitScotland.

Jazz takes the spotlight at The Hub on the Royal Mile, with acclaimed pianist and composer Joe Webb leading the Up Late Jazz Jam on Friday August 15th.

Originally from Wales and now one of the most exciting forces on the UK jazz scene, Webb brings his distinctive energy and improvisational flair, honed through his work with Kansas Smitty’s and as part of the Wynton Marsalis Quartet, with whom he made his Festival debut last year.

The late-night session sees seasoned professionals and fresh talent share the stage for an electrifying night of improvisation and raw creativity in action. 

Renowned violinist and Festival Director Nicola Benedetti leads a cohort of the world’s most promising young musicians in Rising Stars: Classical Jam. This spontaneous, informal concert brings emerging and professional musicians together for a dynamic, performance where audiences choose the repertoire. This event is inspired by the behind-the-scenes energy of rehearsal rooms and post-concert jams that classical musicians usually enjoy off stage.

For the third year running, the International Festival’s Rising Stars programme unites up-and-coming young musicians with mentors for professional development and performance opportunities.

This year’s performances include the first cohort of vocalists in Rising Stars of Voice on 19 August, Rising Stars of Woodwind with clarinettist Mark Simpson on 8 August, and a return from the original 2023 cohort of Rising Stars in Benedetti and Sitkovetsky’s Tribute to Menuhin with NFM Leopoldinum on 11 August.

To read more about the Rising Stars selected to perform at this year’s International Festival, see here.

Nicola Benedetti, Festival Director, Edinburgh International Festival said:“At the heart of our Festival is a commitment to connection – providing a closer communion between artist and audience.

“From our mass ceilidh dancing, to singing Dougie MacLean’s iconic anthem ‘Caledonia’ at the top of our lungs in the Princes Street Gardens, to spontaneous jam sessions for jazz lovers and classical enthusiasts alike, these events invite everyone to take part in the magic of live performance.

“We are all about celebrating artistry in its most human, communal form, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience it with us in August.”

Stephen Deazley, Artistic Director of The Big Singalong, said: “Caledonia has become more than just a song—it’s a reflection of Scotland’s spirit. Nearly 50 years on, it still speaks powerfully about what it means to find home, especially for those who are new to Scotland or have journeyed far.

“Singing it together in Princes Street Gardens this August for the International Festival opening weekend isn’t just about music; it’s about connection. It’s a way for people to feel they belong, to share in something bigger.

“When thousands of voices come together, you feel that sense of welcome, of joy, of community—and that’s what Scotland is all about.”

Rob Dickson, Director of Industry and Events at VisitScotland, said: “The Edinburgh International Festival is one of Scotland’s signature events, and we’re proud to support The Big Singalong and The Ceilidh Sessions as part of the festival’s opening weekend.

“These events not only celebrate our rich musical heritage—with icons like Dougie MacLean and Donald Shaw—but also play a vital role in growing the value of Scotland’s visitor economy.”

“Free, inclusive events like these are essential in ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy and connection that live events bring.

“Together with our enviable portfolio of cultural and sporting events, the Edinburgh International Festival reinforces Scotland’s global reputation as a world-class destination for tourism and events.”

Tickets to all performances at the 2025 Edinburgh International Festival are available at www.eif.co.uk. 

From Parliament to community: Eid Al-Adha reception at Holyrood calls for a more inclusive Scotland

On Thursday, 19 June, the Scottish Parliament opened its doors for a cross-party Eid Al-Adha reception, marking one of the most important festivals in the Islamic calendar with an evening of reflection, solidarity, and shared purpose.  

Sponsored by Foysol Choudhury MSP (Labour), Dr Pam Gosal MSP (Conservative), and Willie Rennie MSP (Liberal Democrat), the event was held in the Garden Lobby and brought together MSPs, diplomats, faith leaders, and community members to recognise the contributions of Scotland’s Muslim communities and reaffirm Parliament’s commitment to equality and inclusion.  

The First Minister said: “Today in Parliament, Foysol and I reflected on the legacy of Sir Geoff Palmer, a pioneer of kindness, inclusion, and tolerance in Scotland. In his spirit, I want to reaffirm my belief in a Scotland where we come together, across all backgrounds, to build communities grounded in respect, understanding, and the common good.

“At a time of anxiety and fear for many in the Muslim community, let me make it absolutely clear: as First Minister of Scotland, I believe in an inclusive Scotland, where people from all backgrounds come together to build a society rooted in kindness, harmony, and shared purpose.” 

Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “Events like this are a reminder to celebrate our differences and walk together as one toward a more tolerant Scotland.

“Racism and prejudice still exist across all communities, and it is our collective responsibility to build a country where everyone can thrive, regardless of background.” 

The event drew wide support, with MSPs in attendance including Neil Bibby, Liam Kerr, Sharon Dowey, Patrick Harvie (Co-Leader of the Scottish Green Party), Kaukab Stewart (Minister for Equalities), and newly elected Davy Russell, demonstrating cross-party backing for an inclusive, pluralist Scotland.  

Dignitaries and special guests also joined the occasion, including Summar Javed, Consul General of Pakistan in Glasgow; the Deputy Consul General of Turkey; and Dr Adrees, Chair of the Muslim Council of Scotland, highlighting the significance of the event both nationally and internationally. 

Mr Choudhury extended his best wishes to those unable to attend, including Alison Johnstone, the Presiding Officer; Russell Findlay MSP, Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party; and Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of the Labour Party—each recognised for their leadership in promoting civic engagement, cohesion and justice.

Organised in partnership with the Muslim Council of Scotland and the Consulate of Pakistan in Glasgow, the evening served as a powerful reminder of how public institutions can foster unity, particularly in times of global uncertainty.  

The event was a significant moment for Scotland’s Muslim community, offering a welcoming space to celebrate culture, faith, and the invaluable contributions Muslims make to public life. It also created a meaningful opportunity for dialogue, connection, and recognition, underscoring Scotland’s ongoing commitment to equality, mutual respect, and community cohesion.  

Foysol Choudhury added: “Since I was elected in 2021, I’ve been passionate about promoting anti-racist education, whether that’s through my work with the Cross-Party Group on Racial and Religious Prejudice or by supporting community events that bring people together to celebrate their heritage.

!This is something I care deeply about, and I’ll keep working to build a more inclusive and understanding Scotland.”  

In his closing remarks, Willie Rennie said: “Tonight is all about diversity and coming together. Without Foysol in the Parliament, I don’t think that voice would be nearly as strong as it is.”

Missing Boy: Have you seen Haiden?

*** UPDATE – HAIDEN HAS BEEN TRACED ***

POLICE are asking for the help of the public to trace a 10-year-old boy reported missing in Edinburgh.

Haiden Crawford was last seen around midday on Friday, 20 June, in the Glenalmond Place area.

He is described as around 4ft 10ins, of average build with short orange coloured hair.

Inspector Quentin Russell said: “Concerns are growing for Haiden’s welfare and it is vital that we find him to make sure he is safe and well.

“He may have taken a bus and travelled around the city.

“We are asking anyone who has seen Haiden or knows where he might be to get in touch with us immediately.”

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 0064 of Saturday, 21 June, 2025.

New Community Café Opening in Edinburgh

A new community café operated by sight loss charity RNIB Scotland will open to the public on Monday (23rd June).

Café VI will serve a selection of sandwiches, cakes, hot drinks and other refreshments. It will be open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm.

Located on Hillside Crescent, Café VI is an inclusive and accessible space, in line with RNIB Scotland’s mission to support people with sight loss and promote a sense of community in everyday life.

The café aims to provide a welcoming environment for the local community and to help raise awareness of sight loss through its design and operation.

The café will be staffed by a team of dedicated volunteers, including both sighted and visually impaired individuals, working together to deliver friendly service and foster inclusion.

The project has involved staff, volunteers, and individuals with lived experience of visual impairment. In addition to the regular food and drink service, the café will also host occasional events and community initiatives.

Daryl Stewart, one of the visually impaired volunteers who will help run the café, says: “Whether grabbing a quick coffee or staying for a chat, every visit helps raise awareness about sight loss and supports RNIB Scotland’s vital work.”

*Visit Café VI at 12-14 Hillside Crescent, Edinburgh, EH7 5EA, Monday – Friday 10am- 3pm.

Support for people with learning disabilities in Scotland

Funding allocated to projects working to enhance equality

People with learning disabilities are being supported to fulfil their potential through new funding awards totalling almost £1.6 million.

The Learning Disability Support Fund is allocated to community projects working directly with people with learning disabilities to provide opportunities and build a more inclusive society.

The fund will run for 30 months from October 2025, with a total of £325,000 available for the first year and £650,000 in each of the following two years. Recipients of the first round are receiving grants of between £75,000 and £250.000.

The charity get2gether is among the successful applicants and has been awarded £108,244 to support its work arranging social activities for people with learning disabilities in safe and friendly locations in Scotland.

Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur said: “We want to create a society where people with learning disabilities can live fulfilling, independent and active lives and this funding will support the important work of get2gether and many other organisations which are working so hard to do just that.

“The grants will be used to provide people with education and information on matters such as accessing health services and developing safe relationships.

“In developing the fund, we have taken into account the views expressed by people with learning disabilities in recent consultation and research and we will work closely with the third sector to ensure it makes a real difference.”

Director at get2gether Mojca Becaj said: “For a small charity like get2gether, the Scottish Government funding through the Learning Disability Support Fund is truly transformational.

“It will enable us to continue creating safe, inclusive spaces where people with learning disabilities can build friendships, relationships, and confidence as well as provide paid roles where they can step into their first paid employment — these are things that many adults take for granted but are life-changing for our members.

“We’re deeply grateful for the recognition and investment in our work and the opportunity to keep making a real difference to the lives of get2gether members.”

Natalie Kernaghan McCaughey, a get2gether ambassador said: “I work as an ambassador at get2gether, we are a member-led charity that works with adults with disabilities. We believe everyone deserves love and friendship.

“I am a paid member of get2gether staff team, I have a lived experience of learning disability and autism. My role is to work with other members to create and co-host their own social events and make connections with each other.”

Director of Funds at Inspiring Scotland Erica Judge said: “We know that the third sector plays a critical role in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities and we are pleased that this fund offers vital longer-term funding, ensuring projects like get2gether can plan their services for the next two and a half years.

“One of the important aspects of this fund is to help ensure people with learning disabilities’ voices are heard.  Not only did people with learning disabilities inform and shape the Learning Disabilities Support Fund’s aims, their voice and experience were central to the decision-making process, and they played a key role in selecting which organisations received funding.”

FUNDING AWARDS

OrganisationFunding Amount
get2gether£108,244
Project Ability£81,741
People First (Scotland)£250,000
Neighbourhood Networks£91,931
Values Into Action Scotland£175,061
Scottish Youth Dance (YDance)£206,106
Dates-n-Mates£179,318
Values Into Action Scotland – The Scottish Assembly£249,998
Association for Real Change – NIN/LIN Networks£249,474
Total£1,591,873

HRH Princess Anne visits The Royal Highland Heatwave!

Crowds kept cool with the coos at Friday’s Royal Highland Show

Royal Highland Show, HRH Princes Anne visits the show

Basking in udderly roasting sunshine, crowds turned out in force as the Royal Highland Show yesterday at Ingliston.

HRH Princess Anne visited the Show on Friday and was escorted by RHASS Chairman, James Logan, and Chief Executive, Alex Paterson. HRH enjoyed a tour of the Show ground, including a visit to the RHET Discovery Centre, where she met local primary school children taking part in activities.

Royal Highland Show, HRH Princes Anne visits the show

She also enjoyed watching the showjumping competition and toured the Cattle Hall.

Fittingly, the Queens Cup was awarded today at the Royal Highland Show.  A prestigious trophy which is awarded annually to the champion of the livestock entry, this year it was presented to Messrs Webster + Smith with dairy goat, Guilden Elma. 

Royal Highland Show, HRH Princes Anne visits the show

David Tennant, Head of Show, said, “Friday at the Show has been a true sun-soaked spectacle and we are thrilled to see our visitors and families enjoy all that the show has to offer. 

“From sheep shearing to competitions, sheepdog skills to cookery demonstrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Royal Highland Show, HRH Princes Anne visits the show

“We were very honoured to have welcomed HRH Princess Anne today and shared with her all of the great achievements from the Scottish agricultural industry.”

Improving mental health nursing care

Review recommendations will benefit patients, staff and students

People affected by mental health issues can expect higher and more consistent standards of care following the publication of Scotland’s Mental Health Nursing Review.

The Review outlines ways to enhance and further support the mental health nursing profession. The paper was developed by mental health nurses and students, academics, with support from carers and people accessing mental health nursing care.

The Review makes a total of 24 recommendations including:

  • ensuring people accessing services have meaningful involvement in their mental health nursing care
  • improving support for newly qualified mental health nurses and sharing best practice
  • considering specific education needs for rural and island settings
  • improving access to post-registration learning for mental health nurses across all sectors

A new Mental Health Nursing Review Implementation Group will be established to ensure effective collaboration, delivery, monitoring and evaluation of the Review actions.

Mental Wellbeing Minister Tom Arthur said: “Through their expert care, compassion and dedication, mental health nursing staff make a significant and positive impact to people’s health and wellbeing every day.

“The Review focuses on their unique role, and it will ensure the profession is supported and empowered to drive the enhancement of mental health and wellbeing services now, and in the future.

“I want to thank all the mental health nursing staff and students, academics, carers and those people accessing care who engaged with and supported this work.

“I am looking forward to working collaboratively to deliver the ambition of ensuring Scotland is the best place for mental health nursing to flourish and where people live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.”

Chair of Scotland’s first Mental Health Nursing Review, former Chief Nursing Officer, Professor Alex McMahon said: “It has been an honour as a mental health nurse to have chaired the review and to have heard from mental health nurses and those that represent people who use services across Scotland.

“The report and its recommendations, mean that patients and mental health nurses who deliver services now and, in the future, will benefit from the reforms.

“It will be important to ensure these recommendations are implemented, and one aspiration I and others share is that we will attract and retain even more people into undergraduate nursing degree programmes.

“I believe being a mental health nurse, is one of the best and most fulfilling careers you can chose.”

Mark Richards, Associate Chief Nursing Officer said: “Our Mental Health Nursing Review highlights the vital role mental health nurses play in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of the people of Scotland.

During our work on the Review, we heard that mental health nurses are at the heart of care delivery and that their relational expertise often has a transformational impact on people’s lives.

“Mental health nurses told us they are proud of the work they do. They strive every day to deliver compassionate, high-quality care, and to work with people who need expert support to enable recovery and promote wellbeing.  

“This Review is important in advancing the contribution of mental health nurses and will help ensure we have a profession that is skilled, well supported and sustainable – now and for many years to come.

“It was collectively produced by our mental health nurses in Scotland, and I look forward to us working together to deliver our ambitions.”  

Darren Fullarton, Associate Nurse Director for NHS Ayrshire and Arran and Chair of the Mental Health Nurse Leads Group for Scotland, said: “The national review of mental health nursing recognises and celebrates the important role that mental health nurses play in their support and compassionate care for people experiencing mental health issues. 

“The National Mental Health Nurse Lead Group are delighted to have had the opportunity to support this significant piece of work which captures views from those with lived experience, families and carers and from mental health nurses themselves to develop an ambitious vision for mental health nurses that exemplifies our commitment to care, compassion and connection.”

The Mental Health Nursing Review commenced in 2024 and was a key action within the Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy’s  Workforce Action plan.