New Suicide Prevention Scotland Campaign and Website

Scotland’s new national suicide prevention campaign went live on Wednesday 16 April 2025. The campaign asks a simple question, “What if a conversation about suicide could save a life“?

It features four people with lived and living experience of suicide, each of whom agreed to share their story having been bereaved by, attempted or actively considered suicide.

The idea behind the campaign is that we need to normalise talking about suicide and give people the confidence to have a conversation that might just save someone’s life.

Alongside the campaign, a new website with a range of information, resources and a new local services directory is being launched at suicideprevention.scot.

This work is led by Suicide Prevention Scotland, the community of organisations working to deliver the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint suicide prevention strategy, Creating Hope Together.

In addition to those with their own experiences of suicide, the campaign was developed with a group of people which also included those with professional experience and academic expertise. Suicide prevention specialists from local areas (Forth Valley and Ayrshire) were also involved, as was SeeMe, Scotland’s national programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination.

Suicide Prevention Scotland’s National Delivery Lead Haylis Smith who lost her uncle Joe to suicide said: “This is an extraordinary campaign. It’s deeply moving, extremely personal, and yet is full of hope. It is also very bold, which is no wonder given it was completely co-produced with people who bring their own experiences.

“The message could not be clearer: if you’re worried about someone, ask them how they are, ask them if they are thinking about suicide. Talking about suicide is the best way to prevent it from happening. And if you’re worried about yourself, please reach out. It might be the bravest thing you ever have to do, but it will probably be the best thing you ever do, too.”

Cllr Paul Kelly, COSLA’s Health and Social Care Spokesperson added: “Within COSLA and across all spheres of Government, we recognise the importance of early intervention – providing the right support at the right time as early as possible.

“I’m confident that this campaign will contribute to our early intervention outcomes by prompting people to have vital conversations about suicide that might just save a life.

“I commend Seonaid, Ross, Clare and Laura for sharing their stories and helping to encourage these conversations. They are all active members of our communities with lived and living experience, which is an essential factor in helping to normalise talking about suicide and ensuring people in need are supported within their local communities.”

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:

Samaritans 116 123 or use the online chat at samaritans.org

Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87NHS 24 mental health hub on 111

If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.

MAY BANK HOLIDAY ALERT: NEW BLUEY COLLECTION IN THE CINEMA

Following the great box office and family audience success of Bluey at the Cinema: Family Trip Collection, Vue Lumière is releasing a second Bluey adventure on the big screen. Bluey at the Cinema: Let’s Play Chef Collection will be playing in over 500 cinemas across the UK and Ireland from Saturday 3rd May, just in time for the Early May Bank Holiday weekend.

Bluey at the Cinema: Let’s Play Chef Collection is an hour-long treat courtesy of BBC Studios and Ludo Studios, made up of eight episodes from the TV show’s three series, all based around the fun of food. The compilation will showcase memorable moments such as Takeaway, Fancy Restaurant, and highlight the Heeler’s skills in the kitchen with episodes such as Omelette and Duck Cake.

Commenting on the new and continued offer of Bluey in cinemas, Johnny Carr, Head of Event Cinema and Distribution, Vue Lumière said: “Following the tremendous success of Bluey at the Cinema: Family Trip Collection, which garnered over 250k admissions at the box office last summer, we’re delighted to announce this unmissable cinema event – the world’s leading animated series and global phenomenon – for the May Bank Holiday weekend and beyond.”

Vue Lumière is the new film distribution division of Vue, bringing the best of independent and international films directly to audiences. Launched in 2024 with the release of the Italian break-out There’s Still Tomorrow and family hit Bluey at the Cinema: Family Trip Collection, the company is now building a slate for 2025 with the aim of releasing 10-12 films per year in the UK and Ireland – and ultimately beyond to other Vue territories. Vue is one of the world’s leading cinema operators, managing the most respected brands and spanning eight countries with 223 sites and 1959 screens.

About Bluey 

The series follows Bluey, a loveable, inexhaustible, Blue Heeler dog, who lives with her Mum, Dad and her little sister, Bingo. Bluey uses her limitless energy to play games that unfold in unpredictable and hilarious ways, bringing her family and the whole neighbourhood into her world of fun.

Bluey is created and written by Joe Brumm and produced by Emmy® Award-winning Ludo Studio for ABC KIDS (Australia) and co-commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios Kids & Family. Financed in association with Screen Australia, Bluey is proudly 100% created, written, animated, and post produced in Brisbane Queensland, Australia, with funding from the Queensland Government through Screen Queensland and the Australian Government. BBC Studios Kids & Family hold the global distribution and merchandise rights.

In Australia, the show is broadcast on ABC. The series airs and streams to U.S. and global audiences (outside of Australia, New Zealand and China) across Disney Channel, Disney Jr. and Disney+ through a global broadcasting deal between BBC Studios Kids & Family and Disney Branded Television.

Bluey has won multiple craft and production awards around the world, including the 2019 International Emmy Kids Award and a 2022 BAFTA Children & Young People Award in the International category. In 2024 alone, Bluey won a Peabody Award, Television Critics Association (TCA) Award for “Outstanding Achievement in Children’s Programming” and a Rose d’Or award in the “Children & Youth” category, and many others.

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Dobbies’ Edinburgh store launches new and exclusive Heritage Planting and Afternoon Tea experience

This May, Dobbies Garden Centres is hosting a new hands-on planting and afternoon tea experience at its Edinburgh store, combining an exclusive afternoon tea with a seasonal planting workshop, inspired by the RHS Chelsea Garden Show and Dobbies’ 160-year heritage.

The Heritage Planting and Afternoon Tea will take place during the week of RHS Chelsea Flower Show, on Tuesday 20 May and Saturday 24 May. Taking place in the Edinburgh store, this event will give guests the perfect opportunity to create their very own bespoke planted container and enjoy a delicious afternoon tea.

Attendees will enjoy a 90-minute experience where they will join Dobbies’ Green Team in the plant area for a seasonally relevant planting demonstration and Q&A session. Each guest will receive a limited-edition 160 heritage Dobbies’ pot and a selection of seasonal plants, carefully chosen to reflect the spirit of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which they will plant up and take home.

Customers at the Edinburgh store will then make their way to the restaurant to enjoy a traditional Heritage Afternoon Tea, which has been carefully curated in honour of celebrating Dobbies’ 160th birthday, and features three tiers of sweet and savoury delights, including Dobbies’ famous scones, plus unlimited tea and coffee refills.

Claire Bishop, Dobbies’ Senior Houseplant Buyer and Chair of Assessors at the RHS Chelsea Garden Show, said: “We are excited to be celebrating 160 years of helping British gardeners to grow by bringing this new event to our Edinburgh store.

“Our planting and afternoon tea events have been really popular with our customers, and it’s been fantastic to have one that celebrates RHS Chelsea Flower Show. I’ve loved selecting the plants and hope those attending enjoy creating their own seasonal containers that they can take home and enjoy.”

Tickets for the Heritage Planting and Afternoon Tea experience at the Edinburgh store are £45 per person.

For more information and to book on Dobbies’ events, visit:

www.dobbies.com/events.

New chapter begins with 88-year-old’s first painting exhibition

AN INSPIRING new art exhibition will showcase the creative talents of Martin Birkhans, an 88-year-old Edinburgh care home resident who has rediscovered his passion for painting, proving that creativity has no age limit.

Martin, who resides at Cramond Residence, is preparing to unveil his first public exhibition, ‘Sketches from a Wheelchair’ – a collection of striking nature-inspired artworks encouraged by his daughter.

Upon arriving at Cramond Residence, physiotherapists helped Martin channel his determination into walking again, an achievement that garnered attention from BBC documentary makers. With age returning him to wheelchair use, Martin found a new outlet for his energy and resolve through painting.

“I have never considered myself an artist, nor do I claim to be one now. But painting has been a wonderful way to keep my mind active,” Martin said. “Nature has always fascinated me, and much of my work is inspired by the world outside my window.”

Martin approaches his art with the same curiosity that made him a respected academic during his career as a senior lecturer at the Edinburgh School of Architecture. His late wife, Joan Lingard, was a renowned author and together they shared a lifetime of creativity and inspiration.

“The exhibition wasn’t my idea – my daughters encouraged me to share my work, and I’m looking forward to seeing how people react to it,” he added.

Set to open tomorrow (Friday 25th April) in the cinema space at Cramond Residence, the exhibition will allow fellow residents, family, and guests to enjoy Martin’s creations. His work will remain on display over the weekend and will also be showcased in reception ahead of the event.

Despite his professional background in architectural academia, Martin’s paintings take a more organic approach, drawing heavily from the natural world. He credits Cramond Residence’s gardens as a major source of inspiration.

“I started drawing the flowers outside, and it evolved from there. My daughters send me photographs of places they know I love, and I paint from memory, imagination, and a little artistic licence,” he explained. “Painting is relaxing, almost addictive, and has become an important part of my routine.”

Creativity runs through Martin’s family. Born in Latvia, Russian occupation forced him and his family to relocate to Canada in 1948. His sister, who still lives in Canada, is a professional painter, and Martin keeps her artwork alongside paintings by his father in his room at Cramond Residence.

The team at Cramond has been instrumental in Martin’s artistic journey, encouraging him to explore his creativity despite health challenges that have kept him from other beloved hobbies such as golf and fishing.

Richard Annan, Head of Sales and Marketing at Cramond Residence said: “Martin is a truly inspiring individual, and his exhibition is a testament to his talent, humour, and sheer determination.

“He has a unique way of seeing the world, and we’re thrilled to help him share his work with others. His paintings are not just beautiful; they tell a story of resilience and creativity.”

The exhibition is a personal event for Martin, who has chosen to gift his artworks rather than sell them. Family members and close friends will have the first opportunity to choose pieces before they are distributed to others who have supported him.

Martin’s wider circle includes generations of architecture students, including the current Professor of the Edinburgh University School of Architecture. This exhibition marks another chapter in his extraordinary life where he shares his creative talents with the community.

“I hope people enjoy the paintings as much as I enjoyed making them. I never set out to exhibit them, but I’m glad my daughters convinced me otherwise,” Martin concluded. “Who knows? Maybe I’ll inspire someone else to pick up a paintbrush, no matter their age.”

£1,000 retirement savings boost from plans to bring together small pension pots

Millions of people will find it easier to track their pension savings with the creation of a small pensions pot consolidator, in reforms unveiled by the pensions minister today (Thursday 24 April).

  • UK Government unveils reforms to combine small pension pots to make working people better off as part of Plan for Change
  • Move is set to boost retirement savings for the average worker by around £1000 and save businesses £225 million a year in unnecessary admin costs
  • Comes as part of Pension Schemes Bill which will drive investment in pensions industry and deliver on the government’s growth mission

This new initiative will tackle the growing problem of small, forgotten pension pots that many people accumulate as they move between employers over their working lives. There are now 13 million of these small pots, holding £1,000 or less, with the number increasing by around one million a year. 

This is a hassle for savers and can stop them getting a good return on their savings if they have to pay multiple flat rate charges. Overseeing all these small pots also costs the pensions industry around £225 million in unnecessary admin costs.  

Under reforms introduced by this government as part of the Pension Schemes Bill, each individual’s small pots will be brought together into one pension scheme that is certified as delivering good value to savers. Individuals will retain the right to opt out.

This will cut costs for savers and make it easier to keep track of their pensions while boosting living standards and make working people better off. It will also cut red tape for businesses managing the schemes and unlock economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

This announcement will reduce costs as well as hassle for savers, in time increasing the pension pot of an average earner by around £1,000 – boosting living standards and making working people better off. It will also cut red tape for businesses managing the schemes and unlock economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said: “It’s great news that more people are saving for their retirement. But I want to make pension saving as simple and rewarding as possible.

“There are now more small pension pots in the UK than pensioners – raising costs and hassle for workers trying to track their savings. It also costs the pensions industry hundreds of millions of pounds every year. 

“We will automatically bring together people’s small pots into one high performing pension, reducing costs as well as hassle for savers. In time this could boost the pension of an average earner by around £1,000 as part of our Plan for Change to put more money in people’s pockets.”

The announcement follows the work of the Small Pots Delivery Group. Their findings, aimed at supporting the design and implementation of the new small pots consolidator scheme, include:

  • A Small Pots Data Platform to identify and source the pension pots that could be consolidated.
  • A framework setting out the rules a scheme would need to follow to become a consolidator scheme. These would include already being in an Automatic Enrolment qualifying scheme, having a specified level of scale to manage expansion, providing good value for money for their members and providing additional protection for members from flat fee charges.
  • Safeguards for savers whose pension pots would be consolidated which include a member op-out option. 

Transforming the pension landscape through the Pension Schemes Bill, set to be introduced in Parliament later this Spring, will deliver on the government’s manifesto commitment to boost investment and returns for savers and make working people better off. 

The Bill will help over 15 million people, boost pension pots by £11,000 and spur on greater investment in productive assets. 

Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association, said: “The accumulation of small pots creates unnecessary cost and complexity for savers and schemes alike. The PLSA has worked extensively with industry and the DWP to propose solutions and supports the model being proposed by the Government.

We look forward to working on delivering the recommendations of the Small Pots “Development Group and are pleased the Government is tackling this long-standing issue in the Pension Schemes Bill.”

Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: “Which? called for the consolidation of small pots under £1,000 before the election, so we are delighted that the government is committing to doing this – a move that will provide greater value for savers and support them to keep track of their pensions. 

“Which? looks forward to working with the government to ensure the pensions system is fit for the modern age.”

Gail Izat, Workplace Managing Director at Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group said: “The number of small pots in the system is growing at a rate of knots and ultimately heightens the risk that people will lose track of their hard-earned savings. 

“The introduction of consolidators that can administer these pots effectively and invest them dynamically will be a step forward and when combined with pension dashboards will empower people to take control of their savings. We look forward to working with government on the creation of this new system.”

Police appeal to help trace prison escaper Raymond McCourt

Police Scotland is appealing for any information that could help to trace 59-year-old Raymond McCourt, a convicted prisoner who has absconded from HMP Castle Huntly.

He was reported missing to police around 5.30pm on Tuesday, 22 April, 2025.

Raymond uses public transport and has connections to the Glasgow and Edinburgh areas. The public are being asked not to approach him.

He is described as being 6ft 2in tall, stocky build with short grey hair and beard and has reduced mobility.

He was last known to be wearing a long black trench coat, grey dress trousers, a grey waistcoat, blue shirt with a red and white tie and brown shoes.

Police Scotland have shared new CCTV images of an absconded prisoner.
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Officers are continuing to appeal for any information that could help to trace 59-year-old Raymond McCourt, a convicted prisoner serving his sentence at HMP Castle Huntly.
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He was reported missing to police around 5.30pm on Tuesday, 22 April, 2025 after he failed to return to the open prison.


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The last confirmed sighting of him is at a premises in Duke Street, Glasgow at 4.40pm on Tuesday.

He was now last seen wearing a checked red, white and blue shirt, a checked baseball cap and a rain jacket. 

Raymond uses public transport and has connections to the Glasgow and Edinburgh areas. The public are being asked not to approach him.

He is described as being 6ft 2in tall, stocky build with short grey hair and beard and has reduced mobility. 

Any sightings or information can be passed to officers via 101, quoting reference 2857 of 22 April, 2025.

Anyone wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Any sightings or information can be passed to officers via 101, quoting reference 2857 of 22 April, 2025.

Anyone wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Commitment to safeguarding democracy

Civic, faith, trade unions and political leaders commit to action

Civic, faith, trade union and political leaders have committed to taking action to safeguard Scotland’s democracy and tackle people’s feeling of being unheard and disempowered.

At a gathering of representatives from across society, the First Minister described the pledge as demonstrating a ‘strength of unity’ which reflects the democratic values felt by communities across the country. 

Today’s event saw more than 50 leaders meet in Glasgow to assess the robustness of Scotland’s democratic system. Across the day, there were focused discussions, moderated by civic leaders, on four key themes which are contributing to a breakdown in democratic trust, including:

  • combating inequality and discrimination
  • tackling disinformation and ensuring a trusted media environment  
  • enhancing trust in politics and boosting the accountability of political leaders and democratic institutions
  • strengthening vigilance to electoral interference and encouraging more active democratic participation

Following discussions, participants considered a mission statement that seeks to provide a framework that can underpin specific actions and solutions to help tackle some of the issues identified.  

The statement reads:  

STRENGTHENING AND PROTECTING DEMOCRACY IN SCOTLAND 

Today, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguard Scotland’s democracy. 

We recognise many people in our country feel distant from politics or failed by society. They feel unheard and disempowered.  

We recognise also that much of our public discourse has become polarised and soured. 

Our starting point has been a recognition of that reality and, alongside this, a recognition also that the solutions, which will be manifold and complex, require a collective response. 

We have a shared responsibility to map a way forward for Scotland, which is why we are committed to working together to ensure that our democratic structures evolve to meet our democratic ideals and are both trusted and robust. 

There are certain fundamental principles and values that are already part of our understanding of Scottish democracy, rooted in the creation of the Scottish Parliament, that we believe should shape and guide our work. 

These are: 

Participation and openness 

The sharing of power 

Accountability 

Equal opportunity 

We stand together on these principles and values, recognising that they offer both a foundation on which to build and markers to guide this next stage of our nation’s democratic journey. 

I pledge my support. 

Speaking after the event, First Minister John Swinney said: “Our discussion was incredibly powerful and equally inspiring.

“I am grateful to the many representatives from across Scottish society who shared their honest reflections on the challenges we face, alongside their absolute determination to work together to ensure we stand up for the values and principles we hold so dear. 

“Today’s event is a pivotal moment for Scotland as we demonstrate our shared commitment to democracy but to make that a reality, we must now work at pace to ensure targeted action delivers results.

“By coming together, we have started that process, with all participants committed to developing actions that can address some of the root causes of the challenges facing our country. I pledge my government’s absolute support for that work, to ensure we leave no stone unturned in identifying solutions and empowering the disempowered who so often feel left behind. 

“We can only protect the rights of each citizen, if we protect, strengthen and renew our democratic values. By reaffirming our commitment to safeguarding democracy in Scotland, we have demonstrated a strength of unity which will guide us in our actions.” 

Following the gathering, political and civic leaders taking part in the press conference pledged their support for the statement. They are: 

  • Anas Sarwar MSP – Leader, Scottish Labour  
  • Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP – Leader, Scottish Liberal Democrats  
  • Patrick Harvie MSP – Co-Convenor, Scottish Green Party  
  • Lorna Slater MSP – Co-Convenor, Scottish Green Party Leader  
  • Ash Regan MSP – Alba parliamentary leader  
  • Roz Foyer – General Secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress 
  • Sara Thiam – Chief Executive of Prosper  

All delegates attending the gathering have been invited to take the statement to their organisation to seek agreement for pledging their support. Work will now be developed in partnership with participants to ensure actions are agreed and taken forward.  

Discover a summer of outdoor adventure with Dynamic Earth

Join an unforgettable Summer Outdoor Club and explore Edinburgh like never before

This summer, Dynamic Earth – Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium – is welcoming back children to its ever-popular Summer Outdoor Club.

Following a sell-out club in 2024, Dynamic Earth’s Summer Outdoor Club returns to inspire a new generation of young scientists. Designed to give children the skills they need to become scientists through fun outdoor activities like rocket engineering and shelter building, plus lots of crafts and group games.

Running throughout July and early August, the club takes place in Holyrood Park and the stunning green spaces surrounding Dynamic Earth. Each day focuses on a different themes and skills essential for scientific success such as creativity, problem solving and experimenting.

The Summer Outdoor Club gives kids the opportunity to design exciting inventions, crack tricky questions and work together to make the big things happen — all while making new friends and unforgettable memories.

With a mix of outdoor play, science games and nature walk there’s something to spark the imagination of every young scientist. With limited spaces available, Dynamic Earth encourages booking early to avoid disappointment.

Conor Ellis, Director for Science Learning and Engagement at Dynamic Earth, said: “Our Summer Outdoor Club is the perfect solution for parents looking for enriching holiday activities this summer.

“With specialist kit, expertise and access to Holyrood Park – our team will deliver an inspirational outdoor club that highlights the importance of the local natural world in our everyday lives.

“It’s an exciting chance for young minds to connect with nature and embrace the scientific skills needed for success and have a brilliant time doing it.”

Dubbed by families as “the best summer camp in Edinburgh” by previous attendees and loved for its unique mix of fun and education, this year’s programme promises to delight from start to finish.

Summer Outdoor Club Dates:

  • 7th July – 11th July
  • 14th July – 18th July
  • 21st July – 25th July
  • 28th July – 1st August

HOW TO ATTEND:

To find out more about Dynamic Earth’s Summer Outdoor Club, or book your child’s attendance, head to Dynamic Earth’s website (here).

Sketching at granton:hub

Landscape, Seascape & Urban Sketching: All Levels

10 weeks, April to June 2025

Capture the spirit of Granton’s waterfront, streets, and skyline in this exciting new sketching course. Open to all levels, this class is perfect for those inspired by the urban environment and natural surroundings.

You’ll explore the essentials of line, light, and perspective while sketching both on-site and in the studio. Expect friendly guidance, creative inspiration, and the chance to exhibit your work in our Summer Exhibition.

Book here or at our link in bio:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/landscape-seascape-urban…

Spaces are limited—book now to secure your place at the discounted rate!

We look forward to welcoming you—whether you’re joining us again or for the very first time—as we begin a new season of creativity and connection.

Warm regards,

On behalf of The Art School Team

Romain Viguier

Edinburgh Leisure receives funding for ASN multi-sports sessions

Edinburgh Leisure is thrilled to announce that Shared Care Scotland’s Better Breaks Fund has awarded £13,609 to support the ASN Multi-Sports sessions at Gracemount Leisure Centre for the 2025-26 period.

This marks the sixth consecutive year that Edinburgh Leisure has received funding from Shared Care Scotland, highlighting the exceptional work done by the team at Gracemount Leisure Centre (GLC) and the significant impact their support has on local families.

Shared Care Scotland funds projects across Scotland that support unpaid carers in leading full and balanced lives. Their annual Better Breaks Fund provides 12-month grants to third sector organisations to develop and deliver short breaks and services for disabled children and young people and their carers.

The ASN Multi-Sports sessions at GLC offer children and young people with various disabilities the chance to enjoy physical activities in a safe and supportive environment.

Activities include swimming, boccia, adapted ball sports, trampolining, martial arts, and gym access for older participants. These sessions aim to enrich lives through physical activity, fostering friendships, encouraging new experiences, developing life skills, building confidence and self-esteem, and most importantly, having fun.

Additionally, the ASN Multi-Sports sessions provide carers with valuable time away from their caregiving roles to focus on their own health and wellbeing. Carers can enjoy free use of the gym, complimentary tea and coffee in the on-site café, or simply leave the centre knowing their child is well cared for.

Sessions take place every Saturday morning at Edinburgh Leisure’s Gracemount Leisure Centre, which was recently awarded the UK Active Scottish Centre of the Year 2024.

Craig Cassidy, Venue Manager at Gracemount, expressed his gratitude: “A huge thank you to Shared Care Scotland’s Better Breaks Fund for another year of funding for our ASN Multi-Sports sessions.

“The benefits of an active childhood are endless, so we are absolutely delighted that the funding will enable us to continue supporting local families with disabled children to access opportunities to be active.”

A local mother, whose child benefits from the service, shared her experience: “My 9-year-old son, Archie, has Down’s Syndrome. We were delighted when we found out about ASN Multi-Sports as Archie has seen his older sisters going to sports clubs but we had struggled to find suitable opportunities for him.

“He has loved football and swimming, and it has been great to watch his confidence grow in the pool.”