TO coincide with Dementia Action Week (May 19 – 25), the Specsavers Home Visits team in Edinburgh has taken vital steps to support its customers living with dementia.
The full team has recently become qualified Dementia Friends, after completing a training course to professionally care for the eye health and hear care of customers who have the condition.
The Specsavers Home Visits team provides care to customers who, due to a multitude of reasons, are unable to pay a visit to a high street store to receive eye health and hearing services.
Lynne Seebaluck, director at Specsavers Home Visits that covers Edinburgh, the Lothians and the Scottish Borders, said: “By becoming Dementia Friends, our team feels more confident to ensure any customers living with dementia feel safe and are looked after in a sensitive way.
“We’re always keen to go the extra mile and support our local community, especially as we’re out visiting those directly in it.”
For more information about the Specsavers Home Visits team, visit:
Increased funding to help young people away from crime
Projects supporting young people at risk of being drawn into criminal activities are to receive up to £26 million over the next three years.
The Scottish Government’s CashBack for Communities programme uses money recovered from seized criminal assets to provide crucial support to young people who may be at risk of becoming involved in offending or antisocial behaviour.
Successful projects in the programme’s next stage (2026-2029) will deliver a range of activities and support for those aged 10 to 25, to help tackle some of the underlying causes of antisocial behaviour and criminal activity. Projects will also provide access to trusted adults who young people can confide in.
Since 2008 CashBack for Communities has invested £156 million and supported around 1.4 million young people across all 32 local authorities in Scotland.
Visiting a project based at Glasgow’s Easterhouse Sports Centre, Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown said: “CashBack for Communities is inspiring. It turns the proceeds of crime into life-changing opportunities for the thousands of young people who take part in projects across Scotland every year.
“Over the course of the next three years of the programme, we are providing £26 million to organisations to deliver diversionary and support work with children and young people.
“By learning new skills and boosting their confidence, it helps young people in our communities who are at risk of becoming involved in crime be diverted from that path and realise their potential.
“Since its inception more than a million young people have received support to turn their lives around, with opportunities provided into employment, education or volunteering.
“CashBack’s success is also testament to the work of law enforcement partners in disrupting organised crime groups – bringing them to justice and seizing their ill-gotten gains, using them to deliver a successful programme across the country.”
CashBack for Communities is a Scottish Government initiative which takes funds recovered through the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and invests them back into communities. It supports delivery of Scottish Government’s Vision for Justice in Scotland.
Hermit crabs and sea hares were among the first finds within St Andrews’ rock pools as a community-driven initiative, part funded by the ScottishPower Foundation, hosted its debut Scottish BioBlitz event.
The Big Rock Pool Challenge blends citizen science with coastal exploration to protect and celebrate marine biodiversity. Delivered by The Rock Pool Project, the initiative has received support from the ScottishPower Foundation, which will award up to £600,000 over the next three years from its Marine Biodiversity Fund.
St Andrews Rock pool BioBlitz, SPEN
Coinciding with UK Invasive Species Week, hermit crabs and sea hares were amongst the top discoveries by the team of volunteers and locals from the community on the shores of East Sands Beach, as the project begins to build a snapshot of what animals and plants call the nation’s rock pools home.
One of four events taking place across the UK, the Big Rock Pool Challenge: National BioBlitz 2025 is encouraging local communities to visit their local rock pools as part of UK Invasive Species Week, from 17 to 25 May, and into the summer months to uncover the marine life hidden there, and log their findings on the iNaturalist app.
This real time data is enabling the Rock Pool Project – in partnership with the Marine Biological Association – to monitor species along the nation’s coastlines, helping scientists to understand how invasive species are spreading and how to better protect native wildlife by taking action sooner.
St Andrews Rock pool BioBlitz, SPEN
Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said: “It’s been fantastic joining The Rock Pool Project team in St. Andrews for the first official event in Scotland.
“The project is one which truly encapsulates the ethos of the Marine Biodiversity Fund, bringing communities together and inspiring and educating people across the country to strive to leave the environment in a better place for generations to come.”
Established in 2021, the Marine Biodiversity Fund was created as a lasting legacy of COP26, the environmental climate conference, which was hosted in the ScottishPower Foundation’s home city of Glasgow.
St Andrews Rock pool BioBlitz, SPEN
Offering multi-year support to a project which contributes to the broader global agenda for environmental sustainability, the fund aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and aims to leave a positive legacy for future generations.
The Rock Pool Project is the second initiative to be supported by the fund and will focus on UK coastal wildlife conservation through volunteer-led monthly local marine wildlife events across the country to foster communities with a passion for local marine conservation.
The project will provide comprehensive training and support to enable volunteers to lead these events, building capacity and community ownership.
St Andrews Rock pool BioBlitz, SPEN
Dr Ben Holt, CEO of The Rock Pool Project said:“As with many of the UK’s rock pools, we’ve found East Sands Beach to be teeming with fascinating marine life. There is, however, more to be done as much of the UK’s rock pools remain unrecorded.
“The support from the ScottishPower Foundation is enabling the project to reach even more people across the country and to help us to build a vital snapshot of what’s living in our rock pools, and how that’s changing. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with nature while doing something that really matters.”
St Andrews Rock pool BioBlitz, SPEN
Dan Lear, Head of Data and Information at the Marine Biological Association said: “The data captured and shared at the events running in St. Andrews and across UK Invasive Species Week increases the available evidence to support our stewardship of the marine environment.
“All the data is shared with UK, European and global agencies, showing how a single species record can contribute to international policy development.”
The national campaign continues across the UK between 20 – 26 May with events in Plymouth, Falmouth and Brighton, all open to the public with more information on how to take part here: https://www.therockpoolproject.co.uk/national-bioblitz
Ahead of the summer months, The Rock Pool Project is encouraging communities to join its volunteer-led monthly local marine wildlife events across the country with more information here: https://www.therockpoolproject.co.uk/
The UK needs a national mission to raise living standards and provide people with hope that things will get easier, starting with the restoration of a Winter Fuel Payment to all pensioner households, First Minister John Swinney has said.
Speaking ahead of talks with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in London, the First Minister said he will press for action to help people struggling with the ongoing cost of living crisis, amid increasing inflation and international economic instability.
Mr Swinney said the first action of the UK Government must be to accept the cut to the Winter Fuel Payment was wrong and announce a restoration so all pensioners get a payment.
The First Minster said people need to believe things can get easier and that he plans to raise specific concerns relating to Scotland’s economy with the Prime Minister which could help accelerate economic growth.
This includes the impact on Scotland of the recently announced UK-US trade deal, the agreement reached with the European Union, Carbon Capture and the case for a bespoke migration policy for Scotland.
Mr Swinney will be in London for a programme of meetings, including a bilateral with the Prime Minister, a multilateral with the First Minister of Wales, First Minister and deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, and a plenary session of the Council of Nations and Regions.
First Minister John Swinney said: “People across the UK are living through a period of huge uncertainty and for some, that is undermining the trust they have in government.
“Cutting the winter fuel payment saw the UK Government breaking promises and removing vital financial support for some of the most vulnerable in our society. Having effectively conceded the argument by announcing a partial U-turn, the Prime Minister should accept the cut was wrong and restore a universal winter fuel payment.
“In Scotland, we are introducing universal winter heating payments through our Cost of Living Guarantee. This will see payment made to all pensioner households, with the poorest receiving the most support which is fair amid ongoing pressures.
“If the UK government want to provide people with hope that things will get easier, the Prime Minister should restore the winter fuel payment as part of a new national mission to raise living standards.
“I will raise this issue with him alongside other critical issues, including our proposal for a Scottish Graduate Visa, Carbon Capture and what impacts recent trade deals will have on Scottish producers and businesses.
“We are willing to work with him and the UK Government, but the question is whether he is willing to work with Scotland and give people hope that a better future is possible.”
The First Minister will hold bilateral talks with the Prime Minister in London today – Friday 23 May.
The First Minister is then due to join the First Minister of Wales, the First Minister and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland for further talks, before joining a meeting of the UK Government’s Council of Nations and Regions.
Hidden dangers at home: Over half (55 per cent) of all accidental deaths occur at home, with falls, poisonings, and burns being the most common.
Garden and DIY safety tips: Use a residual current device (RCD) with electrically powered tools, store chemicals securely, and ensure play equipment is safe and well-maintained.
Personal warning about serious consequences: Brian’s story underscores the importance of caution and proper safety measures when using garden equipment, as accidents can lead to severe injuries.
As the nation looks for inspiration at the Chelsea Flower Show, many will head into their own gardens to dig, plant, and improve their outdoor spaces. But while gardening and DIY can be rewarding, they also come with hidden risks that are often overlooked.
According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents recent Safer Lives, Stronger Nation report, over half (55%) of all accidental deaths occur at home, compared to just 0.6% at work. The most common causes include falls, poisonings, and burns, all of which are preventable with the right precautions.
Therefore, RoSPA is urging households to be aware of the dangers that lie within the home and garden—especially ahead of the May Bank Holiday, when many people take on home improvement projects.
The report also revealed that accidents cost the UK £12 billion annually, including £6 billion in NHS medical care.
The most common domestic accidents are:
Falls: 3,148 (40 per cent)
Accidental poisoning: 2,686 (34 per cent)
Other accidental threats to breathing (e.g., suffocation, strangulation, and choking): 259 (3 per cent)
Exposure to smoke, fire, and flames: 142 (1 per cent)
Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces (including being struck by an object, crushing, and cutting injuries): 46 (1 per cent)
Brian’s Story
Brian, 50, a sales manager, has shared his experience to highlight the importance of safety in the home setting.
On a warm Sunday, while using his Flymo lawnmower, Brian stepped backwards and tripped over his grandson’s trampoline stairs.
He slipped on water from a paddling pool, causing him to fall and accidentally bring the lawnmower towards himself. Brian suffered severe injuries, losing two toes and requiring multiple surgeries. His story underscores the need for caution and proper safety measures when using garden equipment.
Speaking of his accident, Brian said: “I’m so careful now doing anything remotely risky around the house.
“We tend to do things like mow the lawn or climb on chairs or ladders on autopilot, but every task is done now with a lot of thought and consideration. I was very lucky that I didn’t chop off my entire foot.”
Adrian Simpson, Head of Policy at RoSPA, said:“Brian’s story is just one example of the thousands of accidents that occur in homes across Britain every year.
“Whilst we rally the government to take on board the asks in our recent Safer Lives : Stronger Nation report , we advise anyone looking for tips on staying safe – be it in the home, at leisure or at work – to get to grips with our learning resources and advice that can be found online.”
RoSPA’s key tips for having a safe Bank Holiday
Falls
Use stable ladders and step stools: When working on DIY projects or gardening tasks that require reaching high places, ensure ladders and step stools are in good condition, and placed stable on level footing. Avoid overreaching and always maintain three points of contact whilst up ladders.
Clear pathways: Keep walkways and stairs free of clutter, tools, and garden equipment to avoid tripping. Regularly check for uneven surfaces and repair them promptly.
Install handrails: For outdoor steps and garden paths, install handrails to provide support and reduce the risk of falls.
Accidental poisoning
Store chemicals safely: Keep all gardening chemicals, pesticides, and cleaning products up high in a secure, locked cabinet, out of reach of children and pets. Clearly label all containers.
Enviro-friendly options: Consider replacing toxic/corrosive substances with products that can do the same job but are less harmful to humans and corrosive substances with products that can do the same job. But are less harmful to humans / animals and kinder to the environment.
Follow instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using chemicals and pesticides. Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and masks, to avoid exposure.
Dispose of chemicals properly: Dispose of unused or expired chemicals according to local regulations to prevent accidental poisoning.
Poisonous plants: Check the garden area for any plants that may be poisonous to children
Using tools and electrical equipment
Use protective gear: When working with power tools or performing DIY tasks, wear protective gear such as safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection to prevent injuries from flying debris or loud noises.
Check equipment: Regularly inspect garden tools and DIY equipment for damage or wear. Replace or repair faulty items to ensure they are safe to use.
Use tools correctly: Always use tools as intended and follow safety guidelines. For example, use long-handled tools for barbecues and avoid risky manoeuvres on trampolines.
Be mindful of weather conditions: Avoid using electrical equipment in wet conditions to prevent electrocution. Store tools and equipment in a dry place.
Smoke and fire risks
Safe barbecue practices: Place barbecues on level ground, away from flammable materials. Never use accelerants like petrol or meths to light the barbecue. Ensure it is fully extinguished before disposal.
Fire safety equipment: Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of sand nearby when using fire pits or barbecues. Ensure smoke detectors are installed and functioning in your home.
Other threats to breathing
Avoid dust and fumes: When sanding, painting, or using chemicals, ensure the area is well-ventilated. Use masks to protect against inhaling dust or fumes.
Keep small objects away from children: Store small DIY items like screws, nails, and other hardware out of reach of children to prevent choking hazards.
Play safety
Secure equipment: Ensure play equipment and garden structures are securely anchored and regularly inspected for wear and tear to prevent accidents.
The Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) has launched its ambitious fundraising campaign KEEP RHET FREE, aiming to raise £50,000 by December to ensure that children across Scotland continue to access free, unbiased, high-quality rural and food education.
The campaign was launched at a food and farming day at Bonnington Farm near Peebles last week (15 May), where close to 100 school children, farmers, teachers, and RHET supporters gathered to celebrate the hands-on learning that RHET has delivered for over 25 years.
The campaign was developed to support RHET to evolve and focus on securing a new rigorous, long-term fundraising stream alongside Scottish Government funding.
“RHET is free for schools — but it’s not free to run,” said Katrina Barclay, RHET’s Executive Officer. “With rising costs and increasing demand, RHET needs to find new and robust funding streams to continue its important work.”
Each year, RHET engages children through farm visits, classroom talks, and food education activities, helping young people understand where their food comes from and how the countryside works.
RHET Chairman, Hugh McClymont, says: “Every year, over 80,000 young people across Scotland experience something they’ll never forget thanks to the Royal Highland Education Trust.
“But without new avenues of support, these important experiences for children to learn about food, farming and the countryside could be at risk.
“I’m asking for individuals and businesses to dig deep and support a charity that makes a real and lasting difference in the lives of young people and supports vital storytelling for the agricultural industry.”
RHET’s goal is to give every child in Scotland the chance to learn about food, farming, and the countryside, to create a wider understanding of the environmental, economic, and social aspects of rural Scotland.
“This is so much more than a school trip,” said Nicki Istephan, a local teacher from Peebles. “RHET brings the curriculum to life. It helps children see the real world beyond the textbooks. It is important that our curriculum reflects our local community and provides the children with life-long skills”
Every pound raised via the KEEP RHET FREE campaign goes directly to delivering rural learning experiences across Scotland’s 12 RHET Countryside Initiatives.
Betty the Shark, an e-waste sculpture created by artist Johnathan Elders, has made another surprise appearance – this time at Edinburgh’s St James Quarter.
The spectacular basking shark, created using electronic waste, is promoting its future attendance at this year’s Edinburgh Climate Festival.
The free event is taking place at the Edinburgh Meadows on June 28th from 12 – 7pm and, much like Betty, aims to ignite community conversation on climate related issues.
The shark was sculpted as a metaphor for the appetite we hold for the latest tech, shining a light on overconsumption and the consequences of the waste we produce.
You can join Betty’s next journey in celebrating and inspiring climate action at the Edinburgh Climate Festival this June.
During the day you can also enjoy a variety of family-friendly performances, stalls, talks, free activities as well as other art installations alongside the sculpture.
The festival serves as a platform for locals to engage with & discover remarkable climate initiatives, just like Betty the Shark, that are taking place in Edinburgh whilst also enjoying an exciting day out with their families.
Franciele Sobierai, ECF’s Event Coordinator, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Betty the Shark to this year’s Edinburgh Climate Festival.
“Her powerful message about overconsumption and e-waste really captures the spirit of what our festival is all about: inspiring change through creativity, education, and community action.
“We invite everyone to come along, see Betty up close, and be part of a day that celebrates climate action in fun, engaging, and meaningful ways.”
You can find Betty the Shark at Edinburgh’s St James Centre until June 23rd, when she will be getting ready to swim over to the Edinburgh Meadows for her spot at the Edinburgh Climate Festival on the 28th.
You can learn more about the festival & get involved by visiting the links available here
Betty the Shark was created using discarded waste collected by CCL North and is supported by Cognition Art, Edinburgh Remakery, Edinburgh Science, Outer Spaces & Creative Edinburgh.
The Edinburgh Climate Festival is brought to you by Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council (ELREC) & Networking Key Services (NKS), through the Communities’ Reduce Reuse & Recycle (C3R) Project.
The festival is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund’s Climate Action Fund and is supported by The University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Napier University.
