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Tag: advice
Millions of children unite to use their Power for Good
This November, more than 8 million children and young people across the UK are taking part in Anti-Bullying Week 2025, running from 10 to 14 November.
Coordinated by the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA), the campaign is supported by patrons Andy and the Odd Socks, and Rúben Dias, Manchester City and Portugal footballer.
This year’s theme, Power for Good, celebrates the ability we all have to stand up to bullying, spread kindness, and create safer environments for every child.
Anti-Bullying Week began with Odd Socks Day on Monday 10 November – a fun, inclusive day, led by the hugely popular Children’s TV Stars, Andy and the Odd Socks, where children and adults wear odd socks to celebrate what makes us all unique.
A national call for government action
The Anti-Bullying Alliance Advisory Group, made up of leading organisations working with children across the UK, is calling on government to take stronger national action. They are urging ministers to ensure that all schools and those working with young people receive the skills, training, and support they need to:
- Identify bullying early
- Respond effectively and sensitively
- Build inclusive cultures that prevent bullying before it starts, especially those most at risk.
The group emphasises that bullying prevention must be seen as a core part of safeguarding children and an essential part of promoting wellbeing and equal opportunities.
A week of celebration and action
Anti-Bullying Week will include:
- Odd Socks Day, encouraging individuality and kindness with a new toe tapping song from Andy and the Odd Socks
- A Parliamentary event on Wednesday 12 November bringing together MPs, Lords, ABA patrons, and young people to discuss solutions.
- The Anti-Bullying School Staff Awards, honouring staff who go above and beyond to support children.
- Free school resources for schools to embed anti-bullying messages into school life.
- Campaign activity in thousands of schools, youth settings, and homes nationwide, including events led by Young ABA, the Alliance’s youth activist group.
Bullying still affects more than one in five children every year
Despite progress, more than one in five children and young people experience bullying each year. The impact can be devastating, affecting their mental health, confidence, and ability to thrive at school, with the effects often lasting into adulthood.
Rúben Dias, Patron of the Anti-Bullying Alliance, said: “Growing up I saw abuse, exclusion and damage being caused.
“That is why being part of Anti-Bullying week matters to me. I want young people to stand up against it and help each other to be better.”
Andy Day, Andy and the Odd Socks, said: “Music and laughter can open doors to real conversations. By having fun, like Odd Socks Day, we can show that our differences are our gifts, not something to hide.
“For me, Anti-Bullying Week is more than a campaign, it’s a reminder that every child deserves to be seen, heard and safe. When I visit schools, I’m always moved by the way children come together to support each other. You can really see the Power for Good young people have when they stand up for one another.”
CHILDLINE:
- In 2024/25, Childline delivered 291 counselling sessions to young people in Scotland where their main concern was bullying – an average of 24 sessions per month.
- When contacting Childline about online bullying, young people are telling the service that they’re seeing nasty or hurtful posts about themselves, that bullying is taking place in group chats, that they’re facing peer pressure, and they’re experiencing stalking or harassment.
- When contacting Childline about other types of bullying, young people say they’re receiving verbal and/or physical bullying, being bullied about being different, being left out or excluded and being part of rumours or gossip.
Lauren Burke, Childline manager in Glasgow, said: “Bullying doesn’t always look the same – it can happen at school, at home, or through screens. But no matter the form, its impact can stay with young people for years, even into adulthood.
“Every day, Childline hears from children across Scotland who are being bullied. Anti-Bullying Week gives us a vital moment to stand together, shine a light on the issue, and show young people they’re not alone. It’s about raising awareness and making sure bullying is challenged wherever it shows up.
“Silence allows bullying to grow. By speaking up and standing beside those affected, we can help keep children safe. Childline is here around the clock – online and by phone – with trained counsellors ready to listen and support any young person, no matter what they’re going through.”
Martha Boateng, Director of the Anti-Bullying Alliance, said: “With so many children turning to Childline for support, it’s clear that bullying continues to have a profound impact on young lives.
“We all have a responsibility to act, from parents and teachers to the government. This Anti-Bullying Week, we’re calling on every adult to use their power for good and help create a society where all children feel safe, respected and included.”
Rachel Talbot, 18, NSPCC Lived Experience Advocate, who grew up in Angus, said: “From the age of three, I was bullied at school — in the classroom, in the playground, and later online.
“It was relentless. I became withdrawn and anxious, and I kept waiting for someone at school to notice and act. But no one did. That silence made me feel like I didn’t matter.
“The bullying continued into secondary school, even after I moved catchment areas. I remember taking part in Odd Sock Day to celebrate difference and being bullied for that too. It only stopped when I left school. Therapy helped me rebuild my confidence and develop ways to cope, but the impact stayed with me for a long time.
“Speaking out has been a turning point. Through the NSPCC, I’ve shared my story publicly to help improve support systems for young people. I want children to know they’re not alone – and that change is possible. Childline is always there, with trained counsellors ready to listen and support anyone who feels unheard.”
Advice for parents
- Talk to Your Child: It’s important to choose the right time to talk to your child. When you do, try to stay calm, as they may be feeling scared or embarrassed. You can also let them know who they can turn to for help if they would rather speak to another adult.
- Help Them Relax: Bullying can cause children to lose confidence. Encourage them to engage in activities that make them feel good, such as listening to music, playing games, participating in sports, or joining clubs and classes.
- Arrange a Meeting: It is helpful to request a copy of the school’s or club’s anti-bullying policy. Additionally, take notes on what is discussed. This meeting is a good opportunity to ask about the actions the school plans to take and to ensure that you are satisfied with their response.
- Report Bullying: In addition to providing emotional support for your child, review their internet privacy settings to ensure they are secure and up to date. Make sure your child knows how to block accounts and report anyone who is bullying them to the relevant platform. Further advice on this can be found on the NSPCC’s online safety hub.
If your child has bullied someone, you may feel a mix of anger and disappointment. However, it’s important to help your child understand what bullying behaviour is:
- Explain Bullying: Talk to your child about the impact of bullying on others. Make sure they understand that such behaviour is unacceptable. Children don’t always realise that their actions are bullying and how much it can hurt someone else.
- Encourage Empathy: Help your child recognise the feelings of the person they have bullied. Ask them how they think the other child is feeling and encourage them to recall a time when someone was unkind to them. This can help them develop empathy for others.
- Decide Next Steps: Discuss what actions you will take next, such as informing their school, and let your child know what you expect from them moving forward. Encourage them to ask questions about why it’s important to change their behaviour.
- Monitor Your Child: Keep an eye on your child’s behaviour and maintain ongoing conversations about how they treat others. Praise them when they demonstrate positive behaviour but also reinforce your expectations when necessary.
More information and advice can be found on the NSPCC’s website for adults helping their child with bullying.
Advice for children
- Report and Block Individuals: You can report bullying on social media platforms. It’s good to make the report yourself, as this increases the likelihood that the content will be removed.
- Keep Evidence: Maintain a record of incidents, noting what happened and when. It’s also helpful to take screenshots of any online messages.
- Tell Someone: It’s important to talk to a trusted adult, such as a parent or teacher, and share the evidence of the bullying. If the bullying is occurring at your school, they have a responsibility to support you.
- Practice Assertiveness: Being assertive means standing up for yourself in a calm and confident manner, without being aggressive. This can help you feel more empowered and in control when facing bullying.
- Take a Break from Messages: It’s natural to want to see what others are saying when you’re being bullied. However, stepping away from your phone or device for a few minutes can help you feel calmer and more at ease.
More information on Childline’s advice to young people on dealing with bullying can be found here.
Snapshots from Childline counselling sessions
“I feel isolated and I’m tired of being bullied. The boy I have a crush on shared our messages with everyone in our class after I expressed my feelings for him.
“Now everyone’s making fun of me for being gay; they blocked me and kicked me out of group chats. I feel so betrayed.” – Boy, 13, Scotland
“The past few weeks I have realised that I’ve become a target of bullying, both physically and verbally. I spoke to my counsellor about it but I’m really nervous that my bullies are going to hurt me for speaking up.
“They are known to do things like this and the last person to tell someone about their behaviour got a fair beating from them and I’m worried I’m next.” – Girl, 13, Scotland
NHS: Vitamin D supplements
From October to March we can’t make enough vitamin D from sunlight, so to keep bones and muscles healthy, it’s best to take a daily 10 microgram supplement of vitamin D.
You can get vitamin D from most pharmacies and retailers.
The shocking scale of Halloween-related waste
As Halloween fast approaches, many are preparing for the spooky season, with a 5,000% increase in UK searches over the past month for “Halloween costumes” and a 400% increase in searches for “pumpkin carving ideas”.
However, councils across the UK are warning of levels of waste caused by discarded pumpkins, plastic costumes, and decorations.
The experts at Rainbow Rubbish Removals therefore urge households to think green this Halloween, revealing exactly how much food and plastic waste occurs during this season and tips on how to to reduce waste this year.
The True Cost of Halloween: Equivalent of 83 million plastic bottles
An estimated 42% of UK consumers buy a pumpkin for carving, equivalent to roughly 30 million pumpkins purchased.
This results in more than 18,000 tonnes of edible pumpkins ending up in the bin. Since it can take up to 20 years for a pumpkin to break down in a landfill, the environmental impact is far greater than what most people realise.
As they decompose, pumpkins release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
Every year, around seven million Halloween costumes are thrown away in the UK, which is an estimated 2,000 tonnes of plastic waste. About 83% of these outfits are made from polyester, a material that can take anywhere from 20 to 200 years to decompose. When these synthetic fabrics break down, they release microplastics and greenhouse gases, polluting the environment and harming wildlife.
Miroslav Radov, waste expert at Rainbow Rubbish Removals commented: “Much of Halloween waste can easily be avoided. Most carved pumpkins are perfectly edible, yet millions are discarded instead of being cooked or composted.
“The popularity of single-use costumes and decorations also means tonnes of plastic end up in landfill after just one night’s use.
“With Halloween celebrations growing every year, the environmental impact is increasing, creating what councils are calling a ‘frightening trend’ of seasonal waste that puts further strain on local recycling and collection services.”
Councils calling for increased Halloween recycling
Local councils across the UK are urging residents to think twice before throwing away pumpkins, costumes, and decorations this Halloween.
Many are running pumpkin collection and composting schemes, while others are hosting costume swap events or providing dedicated recycling drop-offs for decorations. Before purchasing a brand new costume this year, check if your city offers a ‘swap shop’, as it’s a great initiative aimed at encouraging sustainable living, reducing single-use waste and helping families save money.
Emma Stokes, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment, warns: “People might think leaving pumpkins out for wildlife is a good idea, but rotting pumpkins can actually harm animals, especially hedgehogs.
“We encourage everyone to enjoy their pumpkins to the fullest so try out some new recipes, or dispose of pumpkins responsibly by composting or repurposing.”
Giles Hughes, Chief Executive at West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Switching from new shop bought costumes to making something from old clothing or buying second-hand is another way to be more sustainable.
“Charity shops, apps such as Vinted, and Facebook Marketplace will all have lots of options in the weeks leading up to Halloween.”
How to make a difference at home:
Reducing Halloween waste doesn’t have to be difficult, as just a few simple swaps can make a far less damaging impact on the environment:
- Compost your pumpkins – Cook the edible parts for soup or alternative recipes such as pumpkin pie, and compost the leftovers instead of binning them.
- Reuse or swap costumes – Trade with friends or shop second-hand to cut down on single-use plastics.
- Choose sustainable decorations – Opt for recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable materials instead of plastic-heavy decor.
- Recycle right – Separate recyclable items like cardboard and bottles, and check your local council’s Halloween recycling guidance.
- Plan your purchases – Buy only what you need and avoid excessive packaging or disposable partyware.
- Get creative – Upcycle old clothes and household materials into unique DIY costumes and decorations.
Police: Online Crime Advice
That link you got in a text, email or DM? 
Type don’t tap!
Check the web address is legit and always:
Stop: Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. It could keep you safe.
Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve been scammed and report it to Action Fraud.
If you think you’ve clicked on a suspicious link and shared your details, contact your bank immediately.
Find out more from Take Five.
Have a pet with fireworks phobia? Prepare now to prevent injury and distress, urge vets
With fireworks season fast approaching (it’s arrived already in Drylaw! – Ed.) , the British Veterinary Association (BVA) has issued top tips to help owners protect their pets and livestock from possible injury and distress in the run up to Diwali (20 October), Bonfire Night (5 November) and New Year’s Eve.
Signs of fireworks-related distress can vary from animal to animal. While some pets show obvious signs of fireworks-related anxiety, such as panting, drooling and attempts to escape, there are also more subtle signs that owners should be aware of, including restlessness and toileting in the house.
Cats often hide, while rabbits may keep very still and thump the ground with their back feet. Poultry are especially at risk of ‘smother’, where in a fear response birds huddle together, which can result in death for some.
Each year, vets across the UK see animals with firework-related injuries at this time of the year. By far the most commonly reported cases are self injuries caused by fireworks-related anxiety, such as tooth injuries to dogs from chewing furniture or fractures in horses that had bolted from their fields.
The debris and remnants of fireworks and paper lanterns in fields and surrounding countryside can also pose a serious risk of injury to livestock, wildlife and zoo animals.
British Veterinary Association President Dr Rob Williams MRCVS said: “While fireworks displays can be fun for some of us, they can be extremely traumatic for pets, farm animals, wildlife and animals in zoos. Each year, vets treat animals with injuries caused as a result of stress and fright, as well as burns.
“You can also take simple steps around the house now, such as creating a den for dogs and cats, to keep them safe and calm when fireworks start. Make sure pets are microchipped with up-to-date details in case of escape.
“Longer-term treatment options can be successful with professional input and owner commitment and patience. If your pet gets significantly distressed by fireworks, you should contact your vet now to discuss noise desensitisation techniques, pheromone products and other treatments that may be appropriate for your pet.”
BVA suggests ten top tips to help pet owners and livestock keepers prepare animals as fireworks season approaches:
- Talk to your vet to discuss treatment options for fireworks-induced stress. This may include drugs to help dogs with noise phobias or pheromone products to apply next to your pets’ den and around the house to keep them calm.
- Create a well-padded den for your pet to access ahead of fireworks season so they have a safe place to hide when fireworks start.
- Ensure your pet is microchipped and your details are up to date on the database, in case it runs away from home.
- Move small pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs to a quiet place indoors.
- Close windows and curtains and provide background noise to help mask the fireworks.
- If your pet is distressed, remain calm yourself. Restlessness or toileting in the house can be signs of stress, so don’t punish them.
- Keep livestock housed at times when fireworks are likely to be set off locally and remove any firework debris from grazing pasture before letting them out.
- Horses may be better turned out in a field than stabled, as in a stable they may feel enclosed and unable to move. Owners should consult a qualified equine behaviourist if they have significant concerns about their horse’s response to fireworks.
- If you’re hosting a fireworks display, avoid setting them off near horses, livestock or companion animals. Dispose of any debris and remnants of fireworks responsibly.
- Before lighting a bonfire, remember to check for any wild animals that may be hiding in it.
BVA continues to call on Government to introduce stricter regulations around the sale and use of fireworks. On 12 November, the Fireworks Impact Coalition, of which BVA is a member, will hold an event in parliament hosted by Sarah Owen MP to lobby MPs for changes in the law to better take account of the impact of fireworks on both people and animals.
See BVA’s recommendations on firework controls:
https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/fireworks-and-animal-welfare/
Police: Secure your property plea
Police Scotland have had recent reports of people trying door handles to access flats after gaining access to the communal stair.
Please remember to secure your property and report any crimes to Police.
Advice on securing your property can be found at the below link:
Always dial 999 in an emergency.
For non-emergencies, contact 101 or 0300 426 0101 if calling from outwith the UK. Network charges may apply.
For issues of a non-serious nature, this can be reported by using our Contact Us form:
You can also keep yourself up to date with what’s going on in your area by signing up to Neighbourhood Watch Scotland alerts.
NHS 24: Treating Norovirus
Caught norovirus? – here’s our quick guide on what to do to help you feel better and prevent it from spreading to others:
take paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains
get plenty of rest
use special rehydration drinks if you have signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth or dark urine. These are available in community pharmacies
Norovirus can be very unpleasant but usually clears up by itself in a few days. You can normally look after yourself or your child at home.
Avoid going to your GP, as norovirus can spread to others very easily.
Phone your GP practice or NHS 24 on 111 if you’re concerned or need advice.
PREVENTING THE SPREAD
stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the norovirus symptoms have stopped
avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time
wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water particularly after using the toilet and before preparing or handling food
be aware alcohol-based hand gels don’t kill the virus
disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated, using a bleach-based household cleaner.
wash any items of clothing or bedding that could have become contaminated separately on a hot wash (60°C)
do not share towels and flannels
flush any poo or vomit in the toilet and clean the surrounding area with a bleach-based household cleaner
avoid eating raw, unwashed food
only eat oysters from a reliable source as they can carry norovirus
Remember norovirus spreads very easily in public places such as hospitals, nursing homes and schools.
Follow our hygiene tips above to prevent the virus from spreading further!
SP Energy Networks prepares 3.5m homes and businesses for adverse weather this winter
SP Energy Networks is planning to engage with 3.5 million homes and businesses, including customers across Edinburgh and The Lothians, over the coming weeks, as it helps local communities prepare for adverse weather ahead of winter.
This critical safety campaign forms part of a wider UK roll-out of communication to customers across Central & Southern Scotland, Cheshire, Merseyside, North & Mid Wales and North Shropshire, giving vital advice on how to stay safe and supported during a power cut.
By engaging with households, SP Energy Networks aims to help customers better understand what to do if the lights go out, who can access extra support through the free Priority Services Register, and the measures SP Energy Networks takes every day to keep communities safe and the power flowing.
Even though power cuts don’t happen often, being prepared can make all the difference. That’s why SP Energy Networks are sharing four simple steps everyone can take to prepare for a power cut.
To get prepared ahead of adverse weather, SP Energy Networks’ recommends:
1. Save the 105 number in your phone or write it down somewhere safe.
2. Keep a torch and some new batteries nearby.
3. Charge your phone and any power packs.
4. Have some extra blankets or warm clothes ready.
SP Energy Networks is also encouraging those who may need extra support in the event of a power cut – including people with medical equipment at home, those over 60, households with children under 5, or anyone who feels they could use additional support – to sign up to the Priority Services Register.
This free service provides tailored help and proactive updates when there are problems in a customer’s area, as well as offering a 24/7 dedicated helpline number to contact.
Kendal Morris, Customer Services Director at SP Energy Networks, said: “At SP Energy Networks, keeping our customers safe and supported is our top priority.
“While power cuts are rare, being prepared can make a big difference. That’s why we’re delivering vital safety messaging directly to homes across Edinburgh and The Lothians to make sure everyone has clear, practical advice on what to do if the lights go out.
“From knowing the national 105 number to signing up for our free Priority Services Register, this vital information helps customers feel confident and reassured that they’re ready for any eventuality this winter.”
SP Energy Networks plans to distribute over 3.5 million leaflets directly to households and businesses over the next month, with all homes across Edinburgh and The Lothians receiving a leaflet by the 20th of October.
The distribution of these leaflets forms part of the company’s ongoing commitment to ensuring customers have the information they need to feel safe, supported, and prepared.
For more information and guidance on how to prepare for a power cut, visit:
World Mental Health Day
WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY – 10th OCTOBER 2025
World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10 October. It’s a reminder of the importance of good mental health and the need to prioritise and invest in good mental health.
This year’s theme is ‘access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies’. The theme highlights the importance of people being able to protect their mental health in times of global instability.
TIPS TO MANAGE OVERWHELM