The capital is once again searching for a worthy recipient of the coveted Edinburgh Award, with nominations for this year opening today (Monday 9 March).
Now in its 20th year, the Edinburgh Award continues to recognise exceptional individuals whose achievements have not only brought distinction to the city but have helped shape Edinburgh’s future as a global capital of ideas, culture, innovation and compassion.
Since its inception in 2007, the Award has honoured individuals whose work has left a lasting legacy. From acclaimed artists and pioneering scientists to sporting heroes and social changemakers, each recipient has helped put Edinburgh on the national and international map. Their handprints are permanently cast into the flagstones outside the City Chambers, a lasting tribute at the heart of the capital.
In 2025, the Edinburgh Award was presented to Ali Bowden, the first Director of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature who, whilst in her role, created a diverse and engaging range of projects and programmes to enhance our literary city and played a key role in connecting Edinburgh with other literary cities around the world.
Edinburgh has four weeks to nominate for the 2026 award, before a recipient is selected by the Civic Awards Committee.
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge has urged individuals and businesses to nominate: “The Edinburgh Award gives us a chance to honour the individuals whose work and achievements continue to make Edinburgh the extraordinary city we all know and love.
“I am continually inspired by the way Edinburgh’s people support one another, and this award reflects that community spirit.
“As we mark the 20th Edinburgh Award this is an opportunity to not only reflect on the outstanding individuals who have shaped our past but also to recognise those whose work is influencing our future.
“I encourage everyone to consider who inspires them, who goes above and beyond to make Edinburgh stronger, fairer, more innovative and has made a difference to our city and please submit a nomination.”
Nominations open today Monday 9 March and close at 12 noon on Friday 10 April 2026.
Celebrating 20 years of game-changing theatre – a year-long programme of what NTS does best.
Including three world premieres, five tours across Scotland, gig theatre and a much anticipated new musical, urgent work responding to the current climate, an adaptation of a Scots classic, a major creative response to testimony from the Cared Experienced community, a call out to the nation to inspire a show, a special free TiSS at 10 programme for schools and a wealth of world-class Scottish theatrical talent taking over Scotland’s stages in 2026.
MAJOR TOUR OF SCOTTISH CLASSIC – SCOTTISH PREMIERE
THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE – adapted from the Muriel Spark novel by David Harrower, directed by Vicky Featherstone and featuring Gayle Rankin as Miss Jean Brodie. The Scottish premiere of a new adaptation of the Muriel Spark classic, bringing acclaimed Scottish actor Gayle Rankin back to Scotland’s stages following a high-profile screen and US stage career.
Opening at The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and touring to The Citizens Theatre, Glasgow; His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen; and Pitlochry Festival Theatre from 02 October to 07 November 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland production in partnership with The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and in association with Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
Stand & Deliver: The Lee Jeans Sit-Inby Frances Poet, directed by Jemima Levick. From an idea conceived by Paul English and Frances Poet. 45 years since the legendary occupation of the Lee Jeans factory in Greenock, Stand and Deliver: The Lee Jeans Sit-In tellsa powerful and personal story of political resistance, workers’ determination and lifelong friendships. Performed with a live 80’s soundtrack.
Opening at theTron Theatre, Glasgow, touring to Aberdeen Arts Centre; the Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy; Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh; Byre Theatre, St Andrews; Eastgate Theatre, Peebles; Mull Theatre, Eden Court, Inverness; Cumbernauld Theatre, Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock, from 24 April to 10 June 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland and Tron Theatre Company co-production.
THE HIGH LIFE –The Musical, Still Living It!Story, Script and Lyrics by Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson and Johnny McKnight. Music by Forbes Masson, additional music by Alan Cumming. Directed by Andrew Panton. After a 30-year delay in the departure lounge, The High Lifereturns in a new musical spectacular featuring all four original cast members – Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson, Siobhan Redmond and Patrick Ryecart akaSebastian Flight, Steve McCracken, Shona Spurtle and Captain Hilary Duff.
Opening at Dundee Rep Theatre and touring to His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen; Eden Court, Inverness; Festival Theatre, Edinburgh and King’s Theatre, Glasgow from 27 March to 23 May 2026.
A National Theatre of Scotland co-production with Dundee Rep Theatre, in association with Aberdeen Performing Arts and Capital Theatres.
THROUGH THE SHORTBREAD TIN – written and performed by Martin O’Connor and original productiondirected by Lu Kemp. Martin O’Connor’s acclaimed, playful epic returns by popular demand, tearing through Scottish history and the myths we tell ourselves.
“an entertaining and intelligent investigation into the illusions and inconsistencies of Scottish history, culture and identity.” ★★★★ – The Stage
At the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and then touring to Scottish sited locations in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland in August and September 2026.
LARGE-SCALE NATIONWIDE SOCIALLY ENGAGED AND AUDIENCE FOCUSSED PROJECTS
CARING SCOTLAND PROJECT, creatively led by socially engaged theatre artist, Nicola McCartney.
ONE HUNDRED VOICES is an interactive, audio-guided installation, bringing creative insight into living in the care system. It serves as an artistic act of recognition and celebration of the one hundred testimonies recorded through the Caring Scotland Project.
The installation will premiere at the Scottish Parliament in August ahead of touring to The Citizens Theatre, Glasgow; Millennium Centre, Stranraer; Easterbrook Hall, Dumfries; Reid Hall, Forfar; Rothes Halls, Glenrothes from 12 August to 18 October 2026.
TEN PORTRAITS – a touring exhibitionofportraits of the Care Experienced community captured by Chris Scott, Caring Scotland photographer in residence (April 2026 to February 2027).
THE SOUND COLLECTION -an audio collection of all the stories gathered from the listening project hosted as part of the archive of the National Library of Scotland from April 2026.
Supported by The Weir Charitable Trust and The Rayne Foundation.
TRUE STORY – As NTS celebrates 20 years of bringing real life stories to dramatic life, the organisation will be issuing a Scotland-wide call out for true stories from the nation. Following a public vote one of these will be brought to theatrical life in November 2027. True Story will be launched in January 2026.
TISS AT 10 – A SPECIAL FREE PROGRAMME OF WORK FOR SCHOOLS
To celebrate a decade of creativity, connection and performance magic, every Theatre in Schools Scotland performance will be free of charge for participating schools from August 2026 to June 2027 as part of a special TiSS at 10 anniversary programme. With four bold and inspiring productions already confirmed, TiSS at 10 will bring the thrill of live performance to more than 13,000 pupils across Scotland’s primary and some secondary schools.
TiSS at 10 is supported by Savendie and The Weir Charitable Trust.
Supported by: Aberdeen Baker Incorporation, Aberdeen Performing Arts, Carnegie Dunfermline Trust, David and June Gordon Memorial Trust, MEB Charitable Trust, North East Arts Touring, Russell Trust and The Tillyloss Trust.
Theatre in Schools Scotland is a National Theatre of Scotland and Imaginate partnership project.
TROLLEYDARITY – A SCRATCH N SNIFF STAYCATION at Western General Hospital in Edinburgh; St John’s Hospital and East Lothian Community Hospital from 05 January to 30 March 2026. Co-curated by Alan Grieve and Shona Reppe with facilitators, Minnie Crook and Dan Brown.
Offering patients and staff a unique Scratch ‘n’ Sniff staycation: the ultimate indoor experience for the discerning static traveller.
Supported by: The Weir Charitable Trust and The William Grant Foundation
National Theatre of Scotland and NHS Lothian Charity: Tonic Arts Project
A rapid response theatre project – creatively led by Hannah Lavery and Cora Bissett.
“In the dark times, will there also be singing? Yes, there will also be singing. About the dark times.” — Bertolt Brecht. Two of Scotland’s leading artists and theatre-makers join forces to create a project that offers Scotland’s artists and communities the opportunity to respond with resistance and hope to the “dark times” we are living through.
National Theatre of Scotland, as a theatre without walls, is ideally placed to respond creatively and nimbly to the current challenges facing individuals and communities in divided times.
CHANGE–MAKERS – Leah Byrne, Hannah Low and Andrea Ling, NTS Resident Fellows curate a programme to address sectoral inequities with workshops, surveys, a writer’s programme, call outs and research, throughout the year.
Supported by Esmée Fairbairn Foundation
SOUTH ASIAN PROJECT – NTS’s ongoing commitment to create and develop work by South Asian artists for diverse communities.
A new opportunity for South Asian playwrights, to have their work developed and programmed through the new South Asian Playwrights’ Programme with two new plays to be licensed by A Play, A Pie and A Pint for presentation in future seasons. In partnership with Bijli, A Play, A Pie and A Pint and Playwrights’ Studio Scotland.
And a South Asian Scratch Night at the Citizens Theatre Studio on 08 October 2026; Curated by Niloo-Far Khan and Kal Sabir and presented by South Asian Artists in Scotland in association with National Theatre of Scotland and the Citizens Theatre. Full application details for the South Asian Scratch Night will be announced in 2026.
National Theatre of Scotland and Grid Iron are working in partnership with Great Leap Forward to secure international touring dates in 2026 and into 2027 for June Carter Cash: The Woman, Her Music and Me, the acclaimed award-winning production, written and performed by Charlene Boyd and directed by Cora Bissett.
A year long programme of creative opportunities for schools and community groups, includingFirst Nights: free tickets and a guaranteed good night out for twenty groups across the country, the popular CreativeCareerssessions for schools, and the ever expanding Education Portal with new digital additions Make it Happen and Through the Shortbread Tin and, coming later in 2026, Stand and Deliver: The Lee Jean’s Sit In and The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.
First Nights supported by The Northwood Charitable Trust.
Creative Careers and First Nights are supported by The Stevenston Charitable Trust.
National Theatre of Scotland’s ever-expanding repertoire of short films, features, digital and hybrid broadcast projects continue to be distributed across streaming platforms and to cinemas and festivals. Live projects include Kinaara, written and directed by Kal Sabir, Metamorphosis, written and directed by Gillian Katungi,The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, directed by Hope Dickson Leach (streaming on Sky Arts and Marquee TV), Finding Seaglass by Hannah Lavery (BBC Sounds), The Fifth Step, by David Ireland, directed by Finn Den Hertog (NT Live). Further projects to be announced in 2026.
Jackie Wylie, Artistic Director/Joint CEO said: “I am delighted to share our special 20th birthday season, which celebrates all that makes us a unique national theatre.
“The year encapsulates what National Theatre of Scotland (NTS) does best, with our special without walls model; a truly national theatre. We are touring widely across Scotland in 2026, taking work to wherever audiences are to be found.
“We are a National Theatre that has never played by the rules. This means we can present work in castles and hospitals, in community centres and schools as well as on the largest stages in Scotland.
“We have a packed programme of productions featuring incredible Scottish talent, world premieres, exhilarating musicals, exceptional new plays, much loved classic texts, illuminating community projects and joyous gig theatre.
“We passionately believe in the power of theatre and its place in the cultural heart of the nation. In our 20th birthday year, we must continue to innovate to ensure the vitality and relevance of Scotland’s national theatre.
“We are so proud to deliver a programme that wrestles with the issues of our times, brings real stories to theatrical life and embodies the narrative of a nation – its past, present and future.”
Edinburgh’s OMNi Centre has teamed up with Scottish artist Helen Denerley and Edinburgh Zoo to deliver a primary school design project in celebration of the leisure and entertainment destination’s Dreaming Spires sculpture’s 20th anniversary this year.
P6 students at St Mary’s RC Primary School were invited to take part in a special design project entitled Sustainable Safari: Guardians of Tomorrow to commemorate the milestone. The Dreaming Spires giraffes, Martha and Gilbert, took centre stage in the artwork, while the background showcased each student’s take on a world where nature and people thrive together.
The OMNi team and Dreaming Spires Artist Helen Denerley attended St Mary’s on Friday 24 October to judge the 52 designs. Artwork elements included trees, animals, clean energy sources, and the use of abstract shapes and colours to show a healthy, sustainable environment.
P6 student, Nathan Glowacki, aged 10 was crowned design project winner for their detailed presentation of the giraffe form and the inclusion of a jumping calf. The design will be turned into an animation for all to see on OMNi’s new digital screen on completion of the centre refurbishment.
As a thank you, the participating students will enjoy a school trip to Edinburgh Zoo to learn about the giraffes and the conservation efforts of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS).
Earlier this year, OMNi announced a 12-month corporate partnership with wildlife conservation charity RZSS and adopted a resident giraffe at Edinburgh Zoo.
Nicola Kehoe, Head Teacher of St Mary’s RC Primary School, said: “It’s been wonderful to work closely with OMNi on this exciting design project.
“The P6 students were inspired by Helen Denerley’s use of recycled materials and Edinburgh Zoo’s conservation work – and their individual take on this was reflected in the variety of designs created.
“The children are incredibly excited for their upcoming reward trip to Edinburgh Zoo, including a visit to OMNi’s adopted giraffe. The project has created a great start to the new term – combining creativity, fun, and learning for all.”
Eilidh Parker, OMNi Deputy Centre Manager, said: “We were blown away by the creative talent of the P6 students. Each and every design was truly terrific, and we cannot wait to see the winning design come to life on OMNi’s brand new internal digital screen as part of our centre refurbishment.
“Special thanks to St Mary’s and our project partners Edinburgh Zoo and Helen Denerley. An inspiring collaboration, aligning beautifully with OMNi’s evolution towards a vibrant and welcoming destination firmly rooted into the local community.”
The school project brings the sculpture’s 20th celebrations to a triumphant close. Earlier this year, OMNi adorned the giraffe sculptures with tassel party hats and created online excitement during a 4- week social media prize draw.
Over the years, Dreaming Spires sculpture has become a favoured local landmark and a meeting point for friends, families, and visitors.
As the centre undergoes a £5 million refurbishment, Martha and Gilbert remain a symbol of creativity, connection and community – values that are central to OMNi’s vision for the future.
Stay tuned for exciting things to come in the new year. OMNi and its brands remains open and welcomes visitors throughout the centre refurbishment.
Visit the OMNi website for refurbishment updates: https://omniedinburgh.co.uk/
A new sculpture to commemorate the 20th anniversary of The Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS) has been granted approval by City of Edinburgh Council.
The bronze reclining lion guarding the SCOTS cap badge will be erected in West Princes Street Gardens and unveiled in 2026, marking exactly 20 years since formation.
SCOTS soldiers, veterans and military families have supported local Edinburgh artist, Kenny Hunter, in the design of the statue. It will be cast in six separate sections, representing the unity of Scotland’s six historic infantry regiments that amalgamated to form SCOTS in 2006.
To reflect SCOTS’ deep ties with the city, the lion will take pride of place in the Edinburgh gardens amongst and is intended as a timeless place of quiet reflection for all, with Regimental Headquarters in Edinburgh Castle serving as a fitting backdrop.
Major General Robin Lindsay CBE, Colonel of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, said: “This statue will stand as a proud symbol of Scotland’s senior line infantry regiment. It reflects our heritage, honours all who have served, and looks ahead to the next generation. It will provide a fitting place for reflection and recognition, not only for the serving and veteran community, but for all who visit our city and its gardens.
“Edinburgh is our home, and we are deeply grateful to City of Edinburgh and those who supported this project, as we mark 20 years of service at home and overseas.”
Formed in 2006, The Royal Regiment of Scotland is the senior and only Scottish line infantry regiment of the British Army. Today, it consists of three regular battalions, two reserve battalions, and an incremental company dedicated to ceremonial duties.
With 2,300 serving soldiers and more than 9,000 veterans and families, The Royal Regiment of Scotland has been one of the most deployed in the past two decades, acting in almost every theatre of operations the British Army has been involved in.
The unveiling of the statue will form part of The Royal Regiment of Scotland’s year-long programme of events marking its 20th anniversary.
The Prime Minister and Home Secretary have paid tribute to victims and survivors of the 7/7 attacks and joined the nation in marking the 20th anniversary
Memorials will be held throughout the day alongside victims, survivors, loved ones and first responders to remember the 52 people killed and hundreds of others injured in the attacks.
Ahead of the anniversary, the Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Today the whole country will unite to remember the lives lost in the 7/7 attacks, and all those whose lives were changed forever.
“We honour the courage shown that day—the bravery of the emergency services, the strength of survivors, and the unity of Londoners in the face of terror.
“Those who tried to divide us failed. We stood together then, and we stand together now—against hate and for the values that define us of freedom, democracy and the rule of law.”
Marking 20 years, the Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, said: “Twenty years have passed since 7/7 but the passage of time makes what happened that day no less shocking. It was an appalling attack on our capital city and on democracy itself.
“As we come together to mark this anniversary, my thoughts remain with the victims, survivors and all who loved them. Amid the horror of that day, we saw the best of people, our emergency services, first responders and ordinary Londoners who bravely acted to help one another. Their courage continues to inspire us.
“We will always confront the threats facing this country to keep the public safe and preserve our way of life.”
The anniversary of a terrorist attack can re-trigger trauma for victims and survivors of terrorism. If you, or someone you know has been affected by terrorism, support is available at gov.uk/victimsofterrorism.
The government has taken action to deliver strengthened support for victims and survivors of terrorism, announcing plans for a new dedicated support hub to help victims recover and rebuild their lives.
Proposals for a new national day for victims and survivors of terrorism have also been consulted on, helping the country to remember and honour victims.
The public will also be better protected through strengthened security of public events and venues following the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, better known as Martyn’s Law, receiving royal assent in April.
Big Kid Circus is at Fort Kinnaird this weekend (Thursday 15th May – Sunday 18th May).
Families can expect a spectacular show as the circus celebrates its 20th birthday, highlights include:
The 30ft King Kong: Watch in awe as this towering mechanical marvel comes to life, dominating the stage with jaw-dropping special effects.
The Globe of Death: Witness the heart-pounding spectacle of motorcyclists defying gravity inside a steel globe, performed by the first all-female team in Europe!
Daring Acrobatics and Aerial Acts: Prepare to be amazed by the strength, precision, and grace of Big Kid Circus’s world-class performers.
Family-Friendly Entertainment: With clowning, comedy, and interactive moments, the show is packed with fun for kids and adults alike.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) marks its 20th anniversary on 18 April 2025.
Two decades on, the department is harnessing the spirit of then Chancellor Gordon Brown’s bold reforms and embarking on a new era of transformation.
Supporting the government’s Plan for Change and mission for growth, HMRC is now firmly focused on closing the tax gap, modernising and reforming, and improving customer service.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) marked its 20th anniversary yesterday on Friday 18 April 2025.
The department was established in April 2005 through the merger of the Inland Revenue and HM Customs and Excise, combining tax administrations to reduce overlap and enhance service delivery.
The creation of HMRC by the then Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown, marked a significant reform in public administration, bringing together both direct and indirect tax collection under one organisation.
Two decades later, HMRC is at the heart of the government’s Plan for Change, dedicated to providing the best possible tax and customs service that drives economic growth, and makes working people better off.
HMRC enforces the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage to make work pay, putting more money in people’s pockets. And in simplifying life for businesses through cutting red tape and improving digital services, it is helping them to grow the economy.
The new Child Benefit online claim service is also helping put money in new parents’ pockets, more quickly and easily, as well as boosting family finances through HMRC’s delivery of Tax-Free Childcare.
As the government works to deliver economic security and growth for working people, a more effective and digitally focused HMRC will be crucial to delivering a more productive and efficient state.
Key Milestones and Improvements
Over the past two decades, the decision to bring tax and customs together has enabled HMRC to undergo a transformative journey, marked by key milestones that have enhanced its operational efficiency.
Today, nearly every Self Assessment tax return is filed online. The top-rated HMRC app has been downloaded more than 7 million times, and our digital services continue to grow – making it easier for everyone to get their tax right and more difficult for evaders to cheat the system.
The introduction of Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT in 2019 has evolved customer interactions with the wider tax system, leading to a substantial increase in online VAT returns. And today, MTD for Income Tax Self Assessment is on the verge of being launched, in a move that will both make life easier for small businesses (sole traders) and tackle non-compliance to help close the tax gap.
HMRC has also reduced the number of its offices from more than 500 two decades ago to just 28 today, as it further reduces its office space in central London. The government is building on this journey of efficiency, as well as reinforcing HMRC’s status as a truly national organisation.
Angela MacDonald, HMRC’s Second Permanent Secretary and Deputy Chief Executive, said:“For 20 years and for centuries before, HMRC and its predecessor organisations have been an integral part of the UK’s fabric.
“With the support of our dedicated tax professionals right across the UK, our impact is far reaching. From tackling complex challenges and catching wrongdoers to implementing a nation-defining program like furlough, our work is pivotal.
“Day in and day out, whether seen or unseen, in the UK and with international co-operation, we collect the money that funds vital public services and provides financial support to those who need it most.”
As HMRC embarks on the next 20 years, the commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency remains a priority. By adopting new technologies, HMRC is focusing on improving customer service and delivery through further system improvements and faster, more user-friendly digital platforms.
HMRC’s journey continues to evolve, benefiting taxpayers, families and the overall efficiency of revenue collection. As HMRC looks to the future, it remains dedicated to providing the best possible tax and customs service, to fully support the UK economy in helping rebuild Britain in a decade of national renewal.
We are excited to announce that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the Edinburgh Art Fair, taking place from September 19 to 21 at the O2 Academy Edinburgh.
Since our first event in 2005, we have showcased hundreds of galleries and introduced thousands of artists from around the world to Scotland’s art enthusiasts and collectors. We look forward to presenting even more exciting and original artwork at this year’s fair.
A celebratory reception to mark the One City Trust’s (OCT) 20th Anniversary was held at the City Chambers on Friday.
The event, hosted by the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge, showcased the work of the Trust in the past two decades, and looked ahead to the challenges of the future.
The Trust was established in 2003 in response to the One City report of the Lord Provost’s Commission on Social Exclusion. It engages the idea of a ‘community foundation’ to give people and organisations a means to reach across the divides of the city and support those who are excluded from the community.
A permanent endowment was established with a donation from the City of Edinburgh Council, which the Trust has added to over the years, and continues to build.
In 2012 with the creation of the ‘Lord Provost’s Rapid Action Fund’ the Trust acquired the ability to raise funds specifically for the purpose of administering grants to projects and organisations across the city.
The evening began with an exhibition of the Trust’s archive, showcasing historic documents, photos, and other objects. This was followed by speeches and roundtable discussions focussed on the Trust’s work since 2003 in the context of the two poverty commissions which have reported on the situation in Edinburgh.
The celebratory reception concluded events with a keynote speech from the Lord Provost and President of the OCT, followed by a short film on the Trust’s work and a musical accompaniment.
The One City Trust is seeking donations to continue its work fighting poverty, inequality, and social exclusion in Edinburgh. Donations can be made online via the Trust’s webpage.
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh and President of the One City Trust, Robert Aldridge said: “I am immensely proud of the work that the One City Trust has undertaken in the last twenty years.
“To date, we have delivered over £1.3m of grants to 265 projects across the Capital whilst promoting community benefits and social value amongst our city’s business and private sector community.
“I have no doubt that these efforts have made a positive difference to the lives of our residents. Over the years we have been able to support organisations doing truly amazing work across our communities.
“From Edinburgh Interfaith Association breaking down cultural barriers, to Fresh Start Pantry providing low-cost nutritious and healthy food to tackle holiday hunger for vulnerable families during school holidays, to the Edinburgh School Uniform Bank making sure our schoolchildren are properly clothed, I continue to be inspired by the ways in which the Capital’s community groups look out for one another in these difficult times. This truly reflects the very best qualities of the individuals who make up our city.
“Unfortunately, we still face major challenges in the areas of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion across the city. The pandemic also cast these into sharp light and made us consider how we could reach and help our citizens in different ways.
“Now, perhaps more than ever, the One City Trust and the organisations it supports are key to supporting our communities as we move forward. I would encourage anyone reading this to consider the ways that they can contribute whether that be through donations, community benefit partnerships, volunteering or spreading the word of the Trust and its affiliates.
“As Lord Provost my duty is first and foremost to the people of Edinburgh and I am committed to helping them in any way that I am able. I look forward to seeing the One City Trust continue its work in the next twenty years and beyond, and it is my sincere hope that we will be able to make a strong and lasting difference for our most vulnerable residents.”
Irvine Welsh, celebrated Edinburgh author, and Ambassador of the One City Trust said: “I’ve been involved with the One City Trust for almost two decades. Edinburgh and the wider world have undergone significant changes in this period, resulting in poverty, inequality, and social exclusion becoming even more acute.
“Edinburgh is a city blighted by geographical inequality, great wealth and abject poverty coexisting side by side. This wealth and international acclaim that the city commands does not translate to many communities who have been left behind in an era characterised by public austerity and private profit, and at the expense of key public services. This tale of two cities that is played out not just in Edinburgh but across the country.
“This is obviously something that is in dire need of rebalancing. In the meantime, ventures like the One City Trust continue to strive to offer a way for individuals in adverse socioeconomic conditions to find a way to express themselves through arts and culture. This in turn can give them the confidence to articulate their individual needs, those of their communities and consequently inspire them to go about meeting them.
“I am proud to support the One City Trust and I hope that in the next twenty years it will continue to inspire people to question the world we find ourselves in, and to take the necessary action to fight poverty, inequality and social exclusion here in the capital of Scotland.”
Sir Ian Rankin, celebrated Edinburgh author, and Ambassador of the One City Trust said: “It has been an honour as well as a pleasure to have been associated with One City Trust for the past twenty years.
“It continues to do valuable work in Edinburgh’s local and underprivileged communities – here’s to the next twenty years!”
Edinburgh’s YourGP marks 20th anniversary with expansion into Dundas Street and reveals huge shift in locals’ attitudes to health and wellbeing
Established in 2003, YourGP is one of Scotland’s leading independent medical practices, promising “affordable, friendly & local GP services”.
Throughout their 20 years of providing expert healthcare to Edinburgh residents from their Dean Village practice, they have seen a hugely positive shift in patients’ attitudes to health and wellbeing.
And so, as more locals seek to take a proactive approach to improving their health, the timing is perfect for YourGP to mark their 20th anniversary by opening a second practice right in the heart of the Scottish capital.
Situated on Dundas Street, the new practice features four treatment rooms and will offer a full range of services including GP appointments, comprehensive health screening, cosmetic treatments, and sexual health services. Patients can benefit from short notice appointments and extended consultations to ensure all medical concerns are discussed in depth, as well as a fast turnaround of results.
Locals are being given the opportunity to join the launch day celebrations, be amongst the first to see the new practice and meet some of the team at the new practice open day.
Taking place on Friday 1 September, 12pm – 4pm, visitors can pick up an exclusive goodie bag while stocks last, enjoy 20% off GP and cosmetic services and enter a prize draw to be in with a chance of winning a Health MOT worth £495.
Commenting ahead of the open day, YourGP Clinical Lead, Dr Cathrow, said; “During my time in healthcare over the past 20 years I have seen a hugely positive shift in patients’ attitudes. Especially since the pandemic, people are more attuned to general wellbeing and are looking for a more holistic approach to their healthcare. Focus has moved more to prevention as opposed to simply looking for cures.
“We are seeing a much more engaged population who are taking control of their health and wellbeing in a more proactive manner.
“In response to this and to mark our 20th anniversary, we are delighted to expand our offering and launch YourGP at Dundas Street which will give Edinburgh residents better access to friendly, affordable local GP services.”
“In so doing, YourGP can continue to support people to take charge of their wellbeing and enjoy life-long good health.”
