New agreement to strengthen Scottish and Ukrainian business ties

Supporting the recovery and rebuilding of Ukraine

Angus Robertson has welcomed a new agreement which will strengthen business links between Scotland and Ukraine and support the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine.

A Memorandum of Understanding between the Scottish Government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine commits the two governments to strengthening trade and investment links through information exchange and practical support for businesses working in both countries.

Total trade in goods between Scotland and Ukraine was worth £38.4 million in 2024. A number of Scottish companies are supporting Ukraine’s efforts to rebuild, including Coatbridge-based Cairnhill Structures Ltd which has supplied fabricated steel to rebuild two bridges in Kyiv destroyed during the Russian invasion.

The signing took place during a visit to Scotland by a delegation of more than 60 Ukrainian mayors and business representatives.

External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson said:  “Scotland is deeply committed to supporting Ukraine, whose men, women and children are putting their lives, their freedom and their prosperity on the line to defend their country – and all of our democracies.

“The Memorandum of Understanding we have signed today will strengthen the trade and investment relationship between Scotland and Ukraine, helping businesses in both countries to grow through the exchange of ideas, knowledge and practical support for businesses working in-country.

“We want to learn from each other to make the most of our combined strengths, from e-commerce, to green energy technologies and innovation in agrifood. Scotland stands ready to support Ukraine to recover and rebuild from the damage caused by Russia’s barbaric aggression.

“We will work with the UK Government and our international partners in support of Ukraine’s long-term future, her sovereignty and social and economic prosperity.”

The Consul of Ukraine in Edinburgh Andrii Madzianovskyi, who signed the agreement on behalf of the Ukrainian Government, said: “For Ukraine, this partnership opens new avenues for investment, technology exchange, and access to high-value markets.

“For Scotland, it provides opportunities to expand its business presence in Eastern Europe, diversify partnerships, and support Ukraine’s recovery and growth.

“We wish to see increased bilateral trade and joint business projects as well as stronger business networks and institutional ties. There will be promotion of innovation, sustainable development, and entrepreneurship and enhanced mutual trust and international cooperation.

“This agreement signals a commitment to long-term collaboration and mutual prosperity.”

Military rehabilitation specialists use pedal power and get on their bikes for Poppyscotland

A group of six military rehab specialists will set off on an epic 530-mile charity cycle in aid of veterans’ charity Poppyscotland next week.

Known as the Rehab Rollers, they aim to complete their challenge in just six days, leaving from Redford Barracks in Edinburgh on Saturday, May 31, stopping at nine rehabilitation centres located across the country. These include Faslane, Kinlochleven, Fort George, Lossiemouth, Arbroath and returning to Edinburgh on June 5.

The keen cyclists, who help to rehabilitate injured tri-service personnel, will also place commemorative poppy wreaths at every location they visit to mark 80 years since VE Day and the approaching 80th anniversary of VJ Day. 

Gordon McKay, Clinical Lead Physiotherapist at Redford Barracks, is taking part in the challenge and said: “We have chosen to do this in aid of Poppyscotland because a lot of the people who come through us we aim to get back into full deployable service, but there are some unfortunate souls who don’t make it back and when they leave the service they may well find themselves relying on some of the veterans’ charities located in Scotland.

“So, we thought we would raise some money to help those charities whilst also challenging ourselves and cycling is something we all really enjoy, so it seemed the perfect thing for us to do.

“We have prepared with lots of cycling as a team and solo rides at the weekend and generally trying to get as much time on the saddle as possible. I’m sure there will be blood, sweat and tears but we massively appreciate any donation you can give. 

“We’re proud to support Poppyscotland and help our veterans. Together, we can make a difference.”

All funds raised by Poppyscotland are used helping countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life.

To donate to the Rehab Rollers please visit their JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/page/rehabrollers-poppyscotland

Or to find out more about the charity, please visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk

BBC ALBA sets stage for stardom with search for up-and-coming artist to open Belladrum main stage

Following the success of the 2024 talent search, BBC ALBA has teamed up with The Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival once again with a new quest to find the best up-and-coming musical talent from the Highlands and Islands. 

Open to solo artists and bands (where at least 50% of its members have a Highland home address) across all genres, one newcomer will be given the opportunity to perform on the main stage at this year’s Belladrum Tartan Heart Music Festival.

Known for its unique and diverse showcase of music and the arts, the festival has grown in popularity over the past 20 years, now attracting thousands of visitors. As it prepares for its 21st year, with acts including Texas, Supergrass, Paul Heaton, Tom Walker and Natasha Bedingfield confirmed, the team is on the hunt to find the best new homegrown talent to open the main stage at the Hot House Arena on Thursday 31 July.

True to its longstanding support of Scottish artists, BBC ALBA is supporting the search, providing a platform to propel newcomers onto the celebrated Scottish music scene, as well as an additional opportunity for the winner to record an acoustic session in the BBC ALBA studio at the festival.

Calum McConnell, commissioning editor at BBC ALBA, said: “While there is nothing quite like the atmosphere of being in the field at a festival, shoulder to shoulder with fellow music and arts fans, BBC ALBA remain committed to bringing the magic of Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival to audiences who can’t be there in person, as we have done for the past 13 years.

“Our festival highlights are always a popular fixture in BBC ALBA’s summer schedule, and this year will be no exception. The addition of the talent search will shine an even brighter light on the incredible creativity emerging from the Highlands and Islands.”

Musicians can apply by submitting a bio and link to their music to tartanheart@bbc.co.uk, with entries judged by a panel of experts, including representatives from the BBC and Belladrum, alongside an independent musician appearing at the festival, before the shortlist goes to a public vote.

Applications opened yesterday (Tuesday 27 May) and will close at 11.59pm on Sunday 8 June.

It is expected that the public vote will open on Friday 13 June on the Belladrum website, closing on Friday 20 June, ahead of Belladrum Tartan Heart Music Festival 2025 from Thursday 31 July to Saturday 2 August.

Belladrum festival producer, Dougie Brown, said: “We’re so excited to be teaming up with BBC ALBA once again to uncover and celebrate the next wave of incredible Scottish talent.

“This opportunity is so much more than a performance slot — it’s a potential launchpad for an artist’s future. Over the years, we’ve seen past talent go on to build amazing careers, and that journey often starts right here, on the Belladrum stage.

“Our partnership with BBC ALBA has been instrumental in showcasing not just the festival, but the creativity and energy coming out of the Highlands and Islands. Fourteen years on, it’s still a huge moment when a fresh new voice gets the chance to share their music with thousands, both on site and at home. We can’t wait to see who takes that spotlight this year.”

Last year’s BBC ALBA x Belladrum talent search winner, Cameron Ferguson, said: “Almost a year on from winning the 2024 Belladrum talent search, I can still say that opening up that stage was the proudest moment of my musical journey to date.

“The feeling of playing on a stage I had once only dreamed of playing was surreal, especially one so close to home. Thank you Belladrum, you’ve opened a lot doors for the band and I. We will be back soon enough!”

Belladrum brings together top musical acts, comedy, cabaret, spoken word, dance, drag and even wrestling as part of the annual family-friendly festival. A wealth of new names and popular crowd-pleasers have been added to the festival line up in recent weeks, including The Pigeon Detectives, Example, The Hoosiers, Irish singer and songwriter CMAT, and Scottish folk rock and pop favourites Skipinnish and Tide Lines.

Find out more about Belladrum and get your tickets at tartanheartfestival.com.

For those unable to attend, BBC ALBA will be bringing the best of the festival to viewers at home with its annual live coverage broadcast across the weekend, available on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer.

Watch live or on demand from Thursday 31 July: Belladrum on BBC ALBA.

Audit Scotland: Communities face growing expectation gap

Mounting pressures from inflation, increasing costs and demand are exceeding the Scottish Government’s additional investment in Scotland’s councils.

In 2025/26 councils received over £15 billion in government funding, with more money set to be raised from council tax and charges for some services. With communities paying more for services, their expectations are increasing.

In its latest assessment of local government finances, the Accounts Commission reports that additional costs from wage increases, higher employer National Insurance contributions and intensifying service demands, including social care as Scotland’s population ages, mean councils must cover a budget shortfall of £647 million in 2025/26.

Whilst councils have partly met this shortfall through service savings and increased charges for services, continuing to use reserves and make one-off savings isn’t sustainable. It intensifies pressures on future budgets.

Longer-term change in the way services are delivered is happening but must accelerate. Action is also needed to better understand the impacts on the most vulnerable communities.

Capital funding is vital for councils to invest in public buildings such as schools and libraries, as well as roads. It also underpins the significant transformation needed in the ways services are delivered in the future.

Capital funding from the Scottish Government is increasing but has not returned to previous levels. Councils remain heavily reliant on borrowing to fund their planned £4.7 billion capital investment in 2025/26.

Derek Yule, Member of the Accounts Commission said: “There’s a growing expectation gap. Councils don’t have enough money to meet current demand, at a time when local communities are being asked to contribute more through increases in council tax and charges for some services.

“Councils need to provide clearer budget information and work with communities to determine how services will be delivered in the future. These conversations won’t be easy.

“With public finances tightening, however, not all cost increases faced by councils can be met by government funding. Local action is needed now to find solutions to immediate and future financial challenges.

“This means difficult decisions on what services can be delivered and making major changes in how they are delivered.”

Scottish Child Payment is making a ‘massive difference’

Michelle, a mother of three from Edinburgh has shared the impact Scottish Child Payment is having in her daughter’s life

“One of my daughters has autism and ADHD, and Scottish Child Payment allows me to do activities that calm her down and make her happy and that makes a massive difference.”

Figures released yesterday reveal that Michelle’s daughter is just one of 326,255 children who are actively benefiting from Scottish Child Payment.

Scottish Child Payment is unique to Scotland and provides financial support for families, helping with the costs of caring for a child. It is a weekly payment, currently worth £27.15, for every eligible child that a parent or carer looks after who’s under 16 years of age. 

Michelle said: “Scottish Child Payment is something that helps you and helps your children when you’re in a difficult financial situation.

“I think there’s sometimes a stigma around applying for it, especially as a single mother, but I highly recommend that those who have yet to apply for it do so.”

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:  “Eradicating child poverty is the Scottish Government’s top priority and a national mission.   

“Today’s figure show that the Scottish Government is supporting 233,040 individual clients and 326,255 children throughout Scotland, with over 7.5 million paid out in Scottish Child Payment.

“These payments are actively improving the lives of hundreds of thousands of children in Scotland – helping their families to access essentials and experiences they might otherwise miss out on because they live on a low income.

“In the coming year it is forecast we’ll invest a further £471 million, ensuring that this support continues to reach even more families and children who need it.”

We would urge those who are thinking of applying for financial support, to check their eligibility and start their application today.”

Social Security Scotland – Scottish Child Payment statistics to 31 March 2025

Scottish Child Payment is one of the five family payments parents and carers may be eligible for along with Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods.     

All of the following need to apply:     

  • the person lives in Scotland  
  • the person or their partner are getting certain benefits or payments  
  • the person or their partner are the main person looking after a child who’s under 16 years old  

A parent or carer can apply whether they are in work or not, if they or their partner are getting one or more of the following benefits:    

  • Universal Credit   
  • Child Tax Credit   
  • Working Tax Credit   
  • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).   

Social Security Scotland also accept claims if the person alone is named on one of these benefits:   

  • Pension Credit   
  • Income Support   
  • income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)   

Study shows hearing intervention may reduce risk of falls among older adults

New paper led by ENU’s Dr Adele Goman is the first randomised control trial of this kind

Hearing interventions such as hearing aids and regular audiology appointments have been linked to a reduction in the number of falls among older adults, according to a new paper led by Dr Adele Goman of Edinburgh Napier University’s School of Health & Social Care.

This research, published today in the Lancet Public Health journal, showed that participants with hearing loss who were randomly assigned best practice hearing care reported an average of 27% fewer falls over the course of three years compared to a control group.

Falls are a leading cause of injury for older people and have rising mortality rates, while hearing loss is highly prevalent among those aged 70 and above. However, existing evidence on the effect of hearing aids on falls is mixed, and limited by the methodology of previous studies.

Goman and her colleagues analysed data from the Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) study, a three-year, unmasked, randomised controlled trial of adults aged 70–84 years in the USA designed to study the effect of intervention on cognitive abilities and other health outcomes, such as falls.

The ACHIEVE study was funded by the National Institute on Aging, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health.  It was conducted by a consortium of eight universities in the United States and led by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.

The 977 ACHIEVE study participants, all of whom had hearing loss, were randomly assigned to either receive a hearing intervention or to a health education control intervention. Those randomly assigned to the hearing intervention were offered regular one-to-one audiologist appointments, bilateral hearing aids, the option of additional hearing assistive devices, device use support and educational materials. The health education control intervention group received the same number of appointments with a health educator and more broad educational content on healthy aging.

For this paper, participants were asked to report the number of falls they had experienced over a period of three years. Data indicate that participants who received the hearing intervention reported an average of 27% fewer falls over the course of three years compared to a control group.

Dr Goman’s is the first known large-scale randomised control trial that has examined the effect of hearing intervention on falls.

The researchers believe the reduced number of falls among the hearing intervention group could be down to improved auditory input enhancing spatial awareness, or from having to devote less attention to processing auditory input allowing for more attention to be placed on maintaining postural control.

They are now working on a follow-up study with participants to examine the longer-term effects of hearing intervention on brain health, falls, and other health outcomes.

Dr Adele Goman said: “Hearing loss has previously been associated with a greater risk of falling among older adults, but few studies have directly investigated the connection.

“It is possible that the benefit of improved hearing may have enhanced the spatial environmental awareness of these participants, or that the lower demand on cognitive resources for hearing allowed them to focus more on their movement.

“As this is the first study of its kind, more research is needed to establish our conclusion that hearing intervention may reduce the overall average rate of falls. Our ongoing follow-up will also aim to tell us more about the effect over a longer period of time.

“We hope that these findings have the potential to inform researchers and health professionals, and address a leading cause of injury among older people.”

Young local talent take to the stage in Tinderbox Collective and Granton Youth’s new all-day festival, NxNW 

Tinderbox Collective and Granton Youth new launch youth-powered festival, showcasing the city’s most exciting emerging artists at The Pitt Granton on World Music Day.

The Tinderbox Collective and Granton Youth come together to ignite Granton with the NxNW All-Dayer at The Pitt – a festival-style celebration of Edinburgh’s thriving youth music scene.

Taking place on World Music Day, 21st June 2025, this packed one-day event will showcase nine exceptional young acts, all aged between 15-21, across indie rock, folk, alt-pop and more, all united by their development through Tinderbox and Granton Youth’s transformative Mixtape programme.  

Following multiple sold-out NxNW nights at Leith Depot and The Mash House, this All-Dayer version expands the format to meet overwhelming demand, offering both established followers and new audiences the chance to discover Scotland’s most exciting emerging artists in one electrifying location. 
 
The Lineup: A Showcase of Edinburgh’s Rising Stars

The lineup features an electrifying mix of emerging talent, each with their own unique story. Kicking off the day at 3:15 PM is Kieran Crosbie, a singer-songwriter whose journey into music began through Tinderbox’s hospital outreach programme. Later in the day, The Citrines take the stage, led by 16-year-old Abi, whose band are fast becoming a staple of Edinburgh’s grassroots scene.

The evening crescendos with two acts fresh from Hit The Road, Scotland’s national youth music tour: Ace & All The Other Animals and Low Tide, whose recent tour together has cemented their reputation as ones to watch. Edinburgh-born singer songwriter Lewis McLaughlin and psychedelic pop duo Logan’s Close also join the bill in support of the day.

The lineup for the day spans alt-rock to intimate folk, with the following performances:

3:15pm to 3:45pm - Kieran Crosbie

4pm to 4:30pm - Leon Highway

4:45pm to 5:15pm - Parma Violence

5:30pm to 6pm - Logans Close

6:15pm to 6:45pm - Silenced Blue

7pm to 7:30pm – The Citrines

7:45pm to 8:15pm - Ace & All The Other Animals

8:25pm to 9:10pm – Lewis McLaughlin 

9:15pm to 10pm – Low Tide  

For some, like Kieran, getting involved with Tinderbox has been hugely impactful, offering opportunities they would not have found elsewhere: “I started playing guitar at 12 years old and got involved with Tinderbox through my guitar teacher.

“From that I joined Tinderbox’s ‘Sparks’ project and played at Dynamic Earth performing a collaborative piece of music we had been working on.

“I’m really looking forward to playing the NxNW All Dayer because its such a nice venue and the atmosphere at NxNW is always amazing!”  

For others, like The Citrines, working with Tinderbox has provided the launchpad for their first major gigs and recordings. 
 
Reflecting on her experience with Tinderbox, Lead singer of The Citrines, Abi said: “The first gig we played that I was really properly proud of was the NxNW at the Mash House last year.

“I was buzzing when I got off that stage. It’s helped us branch out, meet other musicians, and build our confidence performing.

Discussing the Pitt All Dayer further, Abi added: “This line-up is amazing – rock music, folk music, rap – and so many talented people I know through Mixtape and Tinderbox. It’s going to be such a good day in such a cool venue.”  

The event builds on the growing success of Tinderbox’s NxNW (North by Northwest) series, a community-rooted platform for young artists that champions creativity, collaboration and the power of live performance.

The NxNW All Dayer is a rare chance to experience the future of Scottish music in its rawest, most exciting form. 
 
Tickets are available now via Ticketsource: 
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/tinderbox-collective/nxnw-all-dayer-at-the-pitt-granton/e-qdamor 

Scotland’s Rural Regions Get Major Mobile Connectivity Boost

Thirteen upgraded masts to transform rural connectivity across the Scottish countryside

The UK Government has today [Wednesday 28 May] announced a significant boost to mobile connectivity across Scotland’s rural areas, with 13 mobile masts upgraded to provide coverage from all four mobile network operators.

Previously, these masts only connected EE customers and those making 999 calls. The upgrades will transform connectivity in remote areas of Scotland that have long suffered from poor signal.

The areas benefiting from the upgrades include Argyll and Bute, Ayrshire, and the South of Scotland – including parts of the Southern Upland Way.

This major connectivity improvement will cover an area equivalent to thousands of football pitches, providing reliable 4G service to residents and visitors in these remote communities.

The UK Government will upgrade over 50 existing mobile masts across England, Scotland and Wales including in UK’s most renowned natural parks, such as Snowdonia and Lake District.

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “This significant mobile connectivity boost, funded by the UK Government, will help people in some of Scotland’s most rural communities.

“It will support local businesses, and improve access and safety for residents and visitors alike. Improving digital connectivity – including in our most remote communities – is a key part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change – it is vital to delivering jobs and economic growth. 

“And upgrading existing masts rather than building new ones, there will be minimal environmental impact in what are some of Scotland’s most scenic areas.”

The upgrades are part of the UK Government’s Shared Rural Network programme, a partnership with mobile network operators aimed at improving connectivity in rural areas throughout Britain. The programme has already delivered coverage to more than 95% of the UK’s landmass, with further improvements planned until early 2027.

The enhanced connectivity will bring numerous benefits to Scottish communities, from supporting local tourism and business opportunities to enabling more flexible working arrangements and improving access to essential online services.

Scotland areas are: 

  • Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
  • Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock
  • Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
  • Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale

Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “The growth potential of our areas of outstanding natural beauty must not be stunted by patchy internet.   

“This milestone is a major step forward for better connectivity for all corners of the UK meaning everyone can reap the benefits of the digital age. From boosting tourism and business opportunities to providing safer outdoors experiences for visitors to our treasured countryside.”

For more information on the Shared Rural Network please visit https://srn.org.uk/

Tonight: Edinburgh Twirling Academy Spring Show

WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE – Doors Open 6.30pm

EDINBURGH TWIRLING ACADEMY SPRING SHOW🖤🌟

Reminder that our spring show displaying our competition girls hard work this season is TONIGHT!

Doors open 18:30 for a 19:00 start⏰

West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre🏡

Tickets are £5 entry £3 concessions🎟️

Can’t wait to see you all there🤩

What’s at Stake – a new exhibition by Contemporary Art Practice students 

Edinburgh College’s HND Contemporary Art Practice (CAP) students invite you to their upcoming graduate exhibition What’s at Stake at Mote 102. 

Join the CAP year 2 students for their opening event on 29th May as they celebrate an exciting new exhibition, marking the end of their time at Edinburgh College. The launch will take place between 6pm – 8pm, and all are welcome to attend. 

The opening event at artist space and gallery Mote 102 (102 Ferry Road, EH6 4PG) will allow guests to see a preview of the work, as well as meet the next wave of contemporary artists over drinks and nibbles. 

The exhibition will then run from 30th May – 1st June, daily from 11am to 5pm, where viewers will get the opportunity to appreciate the work before it moves to the group’s second exhibition space at City Art Centre on the 11th June.

CAP lecturer Alan Holligan said: “What’s at Stake is a testament to the dedication and vision of our graduating artists.

“This exhibition not only showcases the depth of their creative exploration but marks a bold step into the wider art world. We’re immensely proud of their achievements and excited for what lies ahead.”

What’s at Stake will feature contemporary artwork on a variety of themes, including 2D, 3D, and installation/video, so come along and join the CAP graduates in celebrating the end of two incredible years. It’s going to be quite a party! 

CAP year 2 student Bronwen Winter Phoenix said: “I’m so excited to see everyone’s art on display at Mote 102 – we’ve all worked really hard, and we’ve got some great work we can’t wait to show you!” 

Mote 102 is a not-for-profit, curated, changing artist space in a former chemist shop in Leith. The gallery hosts local artists, makers and gardeners with an eye to the wider world.

Exhibitions, events, residencies and the pop-up shop Made by Hand are in occupation on a rolling programme throughout the year.

Accessibility Information:

Venue Access:

Single step access at the front of the venue will have a temporary ramp at the opening event and upon request during general opening times

Internally the rear of the venue is accessible via 2 steps which will have a temporary ramp for wheelchair users during the opening event and upon request during general opening times.

Toilet Facilities:

There are no public toilet facilities in the venue.

Parking: A mix of paid and free on street parking are availble in the surrounding area:

Public Transport:

7, 14, 21 busses stop on Ferry Road withing 20m of the venue

10 bus stops on Great Junction Street approx 200m from Venue

11 bus stop on Newhaven Road approx 200m from the venue