Tag: advice

Expert tips for driving through flooded roads

With warnings in place for heavy rain, motorists are being advised on how to navigate flooded roads safely.

Motoring experts at LeaseLoco.com have shared their top tips for drivers who find themselves with no choice but to tackle waterlogged routes.

Flooded roads not only pose a serious risk of vehicle damage but can also lead to lengthy standstills and an increased likelihood of accidents.

So motorists have been advised to drive steadily, remain considerate of other road users, and use consistent engine revs to reduce the risk of water damage.

Using a low gear is particularly important, as it helps prevent costly repairs and avoids unnecessary breakdowns that can cause further disruption.

Drivers are also being urged to stay calm and focus on safety by using headlights and maintaining clear visibility. 

Patience is key when navigating flooded roads – motorists should take turns, drive through the highest points of the road, and avoid rushing, as panic can lead to accidents.

John Wilmot, CEO and founder of car leasing deals site LeaseLoco said: “Driving through flooded roads should be avoided whenever possible, both for personal safety and to prevent costly damage to your vehicle.

“However, drivers will inevitably encounter waterlogged roads from time to time, so knowing the safest ways to navigate them is essential.

“Water damage to vehicles can be expensive, but maintaining consistent revs while driving through floodwater can help prevent water from entering the engine.

“It’s also important to stay inside your vehicle in flooded areas, as floodwater often contains contaminants from drainage systems that pose serious health risks.

“In wet conditions, vehicles are at risk of losing traction and control – something known as aquaplaning. If this happens, ease off the accelerator gently, keep the steering wheel straight, and avoid braking harshly, as this can worsen the situation.

“By staying calm, driving slowly, and taking proactive precautions, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle.”

LeaseLoco’s tips and advice for driving through flooded roads: 

  • Avoid where possible 

Driving in floods should be avoided whenever possible, as water deeper than 4 inches can pose significant risks to both passengers and pedestrians. Floodwater may be deeper and faster moving than it appears, so plan your journey carefully and reroute if needed.

  • Drive slow 

It’s crucial to drive cautiously and at reduced speeds in flooded areas, as driving too fast can force water into your vehicle and cause serious damage. Additionally, splashing pedestrians by driving through puddles at speed is against the law.

  • Drive through the centre 

Roads are engineered to dip at the sides, allowing water to run off into drainage systems, so driving through the centre of a flooded road will ensure you’re not driving through more water than necessary.

  • One at a time 

Take time and be patient when roads are flooded. Drive cautiously to allow cars to drive through the middle of the road one at a time. For people with larger, more robust cars, be mindful and cautious of other vehicles that might not be as sturdy.

  • Low gear 

Driving in a lower gear and maintaining steady revs can help prevent water from entering the exhaust. If water does enter the exhaust, it can cause hydrolock, potentially resulting in severe engine damage.

  • Use headlights 

Visibility is important when roads are flooded, especially in the evenings, as other drivers might not notice reduced speeds or delays caused by cautiously navigating through the centre of floodwater.

  • Air conditioning 

Prevent your car from misting in floods so that your vision is clear for any potential hazards. Keep air flowing by turning the air conditioning on.

  • Remain inside the car 

Flood water is usually caused from systems overflowing, so the water could be grossly contaminated. Stay inside your car, even if you’re waiting for help. Water may also appear to be more shallow than it really is, which can increase danger to individuals who aren’t confident in water.

Motorists can sign up for flood warnings on the GOV.uk website.

TALL SHIPS: Don’t Go Overboard!

TALL SHIPS 2025: ABERDEEN 19 – 22 JULY

🚢⚓ Don’t go overboard during Tall Ships 2025

With hundreds of thousands of people expected to flock to the Tall Ships when they dock in Aberdeen this weekend, NHS Grampian is encouraging people to enjoy themselves safely.

With quayside concerts every night and a packed daytime programme it is set to be an extremely busy few days. As such, the health board is issuing the following top tips:

▪ Slap on the SPF. With much of the event focused on outdoor activities, protecting the skin is vital. At least SPF30, but preferably SPF50, suncream should be applied generously and regularly topped up.

▪ It might be Yo-Ho-Ho, but is the bottle of rum necessary? Pacing yourself, alternating non-alcoholic drinks, and having something to eat means you won’t feel like walking the plank the morning after.

▪ If a salty sea dog, or marvellous mermaid, should catch your eye, make smart decisions about your sexual health and use a condom. This isn’t just about preventing an unwanted pregnancy, it’s also about stopping the spread of STIs. Condoms are available for free at locations across Grampian, check out our (treasure) map here: www.nhsgrampian.org/service-hub/sexualhealth/free-condoms

There will be several first aid posts and a larger medical facility on site, at which staff from Scotia Medical Group will be on hand to provide immediate support. These facilities should be your first port of call for any non-urgent incidents at the event.

Dr Kirsty Smith, a consultant in the emergency department at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, said: “In an ideal world, we would love it if not a single person taking part in – or coming to see – the Tall Ships needed our care. However, if they do, it is vital they use NHS services correctly, especially if they aren’t familiar with the way we work.

“For minor ailments, the NHS Inform website is packed with useful self-care guides. If over the counter medicines or simple supplies like bandages are required, Aberdeen City Centre is well stocked with pharmacies, and you can get additional expert advice from the pharmacists if you need it.

“For minor injuries, call NHS 24 on 111. You’ll be able to speak to trained professionals and if you need further treatment or an X-Ray, they can arrange an appointment for this.

“I cannot stress enough, calling 999 or coming direct to the emergency departments at Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital or Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, should be for medical emergencies only.”

Emma Wadee, project manager for The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen said: “Everyone at the Tall Ships Aberdeen want every single one of our visitors to have the best time possible, while staying safe and well during this brilliant event.

“We would urge people to follow the simple and sensible top health tips the NHS Grampian experts have provided. But if anyone does need assistance, please head towards one of our well-signposted first aid posts or alert any of the Tall Ships team who will be on hand to help visitors.”

Anyone requiring healthcare who does not normally live in the UK may have to pay for some or all their treatment, depending on their country of origin.

More information on this is on the NHS Inform website:

http://www.nhsinform.scot/…/healthcare-for-overseas…

Acas issues tips for employers to manage the hot weather at work 

Workplace expert Acas has offered some top tips to help employers manage workplace challenges due to the hot weather. 

The Met Office has predicted that temperatures of up to 35C are expected towards the end of this week.  

Acas Chief Executive Niall Mackenzie said: “The sizzling weather may be ideal for the beach but staff getting into work during one of the hottest weeks of the year may not feel the same way. 

“Some employees with certain health conditions or disabilities may be adversely affected by the extreme heat. The heat can also impact public transport too which can affect employees commuting into work. 

“Acas has some top tips for employers to help ensure their businesses remain productive during the heatwave whilst keeping staff happy too.” 

According to a recent Acas poll, almost half (47%) of respondents felt that poor sleep during times of hot weather impacted their work. This was followed by 22% saying that overheated offices was their biggest challenge and 21% claiming that they found staying focused in heatwaves difficult.  

Acas top tips for hot weather working include: 

Workplace temperatures should be reasonable  

There is no legal maximum working temperature. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) advice is that the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings must be reasonable.  

The HSE offers advice on how to carry out a thermal comfort risk assessment if staff are unhappy with the temperature:  

http://www.hse.gov.uk/temperature/index.htm  

Keeping cool at work  

Switch on any fans or air conditioners to keep workplaces comfortable and use blinds or curtains to block out sunlight. Staff working outside should wear appropriate clothes and use sunscreen to protect from sunburn. 

Stay hydrated  

Employers must provide staff with suitable drinking water in the workplace. Workers should drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and not wait until they are thirsty. Employers could allow extra breaks for staff to get cold drinks. 

Dress code  

Employers are not under any obligation to relax their uniform or dress code requirements during hot weather but where possible it may be advisable to for employers to relax the rules for wearing ties or suits. 

Getting into work  

If public transport gets adversely affected by the hot weather, this could affect staff attendance and their ability to get into work on time. Staff should check timetables in advance, and employers should be flexible.  

https://www.acas.org.uk/disruption-getting-to-work

Vulnerable workers   

Vulnerable workers- Worker with health conditions or disabilities may be affected more by hot weather. Employers should assess for any risks and discuss what they need to reduce or remove that risk. This might include providing fans, portable air-cooling units or more frequent or longer breaks. Employers must make reasonable adjustments for workers with disabilities.  

https://www.acas.org.uk/reasonable-adjustments

https://www.acas.org.uk/extreme-temperatures-in-the-workplace

Heritage attractions in Scotland urged to take steps to prevent crime

  • Specialist insurer recommends heritage property owners take security steps this summer
  • Caution urged after 2024 survey reveals nine in ten heritage properties affected by crime
  • Clackmannan Tower a victim of graffiti attack in April 2025 and Kilwinning Abbey damaged in August 2024

Specialist heritage insurer Ecclesiastical is urging heritage sites in Scotland to take steps to prevent being a victim of crime ahead of a bumper summer for UK tourism.

Last year Ecclesiastical carried out a survey of 500 heritage decision makers and found 92% of heritage organisations have suffered crime between 2023-24.

These included incidents of anti-social behaviour, physical abuse towards staff and volunteers from visitors, theft of metal, damage by vehicles, and theft of oil.

In some instances, these attacks on heritage properties led to closures – with over a third (35%) saying they were forced to close their doors as a result.

With tourism set to generate £33.7 billion [i]in spending in 2025, heritage properties, grappling with rising costs, are relying on the busy summer season to secure essential funds. Any enforced closures threaten their ability to do so, putting their future at risk.

Earlier this year VisitBritain published their forecast, based on International Passenger Survey (IPS) data, of tourists visiting the UK and estimated an increase in numbers from 2024, from 41.2 million visits to 43.4 million visits (5% growth) this year.

Ahead of the summer, when many of the UK’s heritage sites will welcome visitors, Ecclesiastical is encouraging heritage property managers to take precautions.

Laura Carter, customer segment director at Ecclesiastical Insurance, said: “As the UK’s leading insurer of Grade I listed buildings, we’re passionate about protecting Britain’s heritage. In recent years we’ve seen thefts from heritage properties increase – causing damage to items and places of real historical significance.

“There are a number of measures heritage organisations can take to better secure property and assets, which would ideally be a combination of both physical and electronic protection. Our guidance has been developed by our risk management experts and we hope it will encourage heritage property owners and managers to review the measures in place to help protect their properties from future attacks.”

In the UK, the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) work with Historic England and members of Alliance to Reduce Crime Against Heritage (ARCH) to tackle the threat of heritage crime. Ecclesiastical works alongside the partnership to provide valuable insight in the fight against crime.

Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Nolan, National Policing Lead for Heritage and Cultural Property Crime, said: “Stealing from or damaging any historic buildings or cultural sites is abhorrent. They are attacks on both our national and local heritage and can cause irreplaceable damage.

“We are committed to tackling this issue and our heritage crime officers across the country will continue to work with partners to reduce offending and raise awareness about the long-lasting damage heritage crime can have.”

Ecclesiastical recommends heritage property owners take practical steps to protect themselves, including:

  • Try to locate portable valuable items away from the building perimeter, as far from external doors and windows as possible. The further into a property thieves have to go, the longer it will take them and the greater the risk of detection.
  • Where valuables are out on display to members of the public, house them in security designed attack resistant display cabinets. Laminated/security glazing should be used and cabinet frames, locks and hinges should be designed to resist physical attacks.
  • If virtual tours of a property are included on websites avoid including the location of electronic security measures, such as intruder alarm and CCTV systems, which could be used to inform a planned attack.
  • Review perimeter security arrangements. Restrict vehicular access to the site and locate any designated parking as far from the main property as possible. The further thieves have to travel on foot the greater the risk of detection and the less they can carry away with them.
  • Watch out for visitors acting suspiciously. Behaviour such as walking speedily through some rooms but lingering in front of particular exhibits; studying nearby windows and doors; looking for electronic security measures such as closed-circuit television and intruder alarm detectors may be indicative of attack planning
  • Electronic security measures should be reviewed alongside physical security arrangements. Consider the installation of an intruder alarm system to aid early detection of unauthorised access if not already fitted. Where fitted review existing coverage to ensure the system adequately covers potential access points into the property and target areas where there is a concentration of valuables.

For more information visit www.ecclesiastical.com/riskmanagement.

Edinburgh alcohol and drug support workers urged to access ASH Scotland’s free e-learning module

ASH Scotland is encouraging alcohol and drug support workers and volunteers in Edinburgh to access a new e-learning module providing vital information which can be used to encourage people who smoke and are being supported to reduce use of alcohol and other drugs to seek assistance to live tobacco-free.

Statistics show that level of smoking for people entering treatment for problematic substance use is substantially higher than the rate of the general adult population and the new learning aid can inform how to best support service users who want to quit smoking.

The health charity’s ‘Smoking and Problematic Substance Use’ module covers a range of topics including details about the linked behaviours between smoking and drinking alcohol or using drugs, the impacts of smoking on psychotropic drugs which may be provided during treatment, raising the issue of smoking and signposting to NHS Scotland’s free specialist Quit Your Way service.

Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive for ASH Scotland, said: “Our new e-learning module is designed to increase awareness and provide essential opportunities to learn about the negative impacts that tobacco use can have on the lives of people who are being supported to reduce consumption of alcohol and other drugs.

“For example, nicotine can be as addictive as heroin or cocaine and, when a cigarette burns, it releases a dangerous cocktail of more than 5,000 chemicals – 250 which are toxic and around 70 that are known to cause cancer.

“Smoking also reduces the effectiveness of medicated psychotropic drugs, such as benzodiazepines, clozapine and most antidepressants, by up to 50 per cent which means people receiving treatment may need higher doses that could put them at higher risk of experiencing side effects.

“Our e-learning module is a vital resource for alcohol and drug support workers and volunteers to build their knowledge and confidence in starting conversations to empower clients across Edinburgh to make informed choices about giving up smoking to live healthier lives.”

ASH Scotland’s ‘Smoking and problematic substance use’ e-learning module is available for free at www.ashscotlandmoodle.org.uk here.

For quit smoking support, visit QuitYourWay.Scot or call the Quit Your Way Scotland free helpline on 0800 84 84 84.

What to do if you hit an animal on the road when driving this summer

Drivers are being told what to do if they accidentally collide with animals when driving around the UK this summer. 

With 14,649 animals reportedly killed on UK roads each year*, the motoring experts from LeaseLoco.com are offering advice to help keep both drivers and animals safe on the roads. 

Those driving in rural areas or late at night should be extra mindful that they might come across wildlife.

Motorists are advised to reduce their speed and remain alert, particularly on country roads with 60mph limits, where animal collisions are more common.**

The experts warn that drivers who do come across animals should slow down and avoid any sudden or loud movements such as swerving, braking suddenly, using the horn or revving the engine.

This can frighten the animal and cause them to panic and act unpredictably, which could put both you and the animal in danger. 

Remain calm and wait for the animal to pass and clear the road before gently driving off. 

In the event of a collision, the correct course of action depends on the animal involved. 

For dogs, cattle, horses, pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys and mules, drivers are legally required to report the incident to the police.

Failure to do so may result in penalty points, fines, or even imprisonment under section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

Hitting an animal can be distressing, but it’s important to remain calm. Pull over when it is safe to do so, switch on hazard lights, and check that all passengers are unharmed.

If safe to do so, motorists are also advised to take photographs of the scene and the animal to support any necessary reports or insurance claims.

Although it is not a legal requirement to report collisions involving other animals such as cats, foxes, deer or badgers, contacting the RSPCA or a local wildlife rescue centre may help save the animal’s life.

It’s also recommended to report larger animals like deer to the police or local council so that they can be easily removed, as they can obstruct the road and pose a hazard.

If a domestic animal is involved, check for a collar, as this may help identify the owner.

Notifying the owner can provide closure and prevent unnecessary distress from not knowing what happened to their pet.

John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco.com said: “Encounters with animals on the road can be stressful but staying calm and knowing what to do is key.

“If you’re travelling in rural areas this summer, be prepared and always look well ahead for animals and slow down when approaching one. 

“Swerving to avoid them can lead to more serious accidents, so it’s safer to brake in a controlled way and gently come to a full stop if you need to and wait for the animal to pass.

“Sudden movements and loud noises from the car can frighten and startle animals which can be really dangerous for everyone so avoid revving the engine and beeping the horn at all costs. 

“If you spot animals like cattle or deer, wait a few minutes to ensure that the rest of their herd isn’t about to appear behind them and drive cautiously.

“If you have hit an animal, it’s really important that you report the incident to the council, police, or the RSPCA. You could potentially save the animal’s life and help keep other road users safe.”

Dog Safety Warning Ahead of BBQ-Filled Weekend Heatwave

With a UK heatwave forecast for this weekend with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees in some areas of the UK, in classic British style, BBQs are likely to be ready and raring to go.

But while the sun may be welcome, Dog Friendly Retreats is urging dog owners to take care, because what’s fun for us can be unexpectedly dangerous for our four-legged companions.

Barbecue food and extreme heat are a risky combination for dogs, and with pets expected to join in outdoor festivities this weekend, now is the time for awareness and prevention.

 BBQ Foods That Can Seriously Harm Your Dog

Cooked bones (especially chicken)
One of the biggest BBQ hazards are cooked bones that can become brittle and can splinter into sharp shards when chewed, leading to choking or life-threatening internal injuries. Never give your dog leftovers from the grill.

Skewers and kebab sticks
Whether wood or metal, these are incredibly dangerous if swallowed. Dogs can easily grab a half-eaten kebab off a plate or BBQ tray and the stick could puncture their throat or stomach which is not only incredibly dangerous, but could be costly at the vets.

Greasy, fatty meats
Sausages, burgers, ribs, and lamb chops may be barbecue staples, but for dogs, they can cause stomach upsets or even pancreatitis, a painful, potentially fatal condition triggered by fatty foods.

Marinated, seasoned, or spicy meat
BBQ favourites are often coated in rubs or sauces containing onion, garlic, salt, or spices, all of which are toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms from vomiting to anaemia.

Burnt scraps and charred food
While you might toss a burnt sausage to the dog as a treat, overcooked meat can be tough to digest and potentially contain carcinogenic compounds. It’s best to keep it away from pets entirely.

Alcohol and BBQ sauce spills
Pints on the grass or spilt sticky sauces might not seem like a big deal, but alcohol is toxic to dogs even in small quantities, and many sauces contain ingredients like onion or xylitol (an artificial sweetener that is deadly to dogs).

Hot Weather = Hidden Dangers for Dogs

The barbecue itself isn’t the only risk this weekend. With temperatures set to soar, dogs are at serious risk of overheating, especially breeds with thick coats or short noses like bulldogs, pugs, and spaniels.

Watch out for:

  • Hot patios and garden decking – Dogs’ paw pads can burn on sun-heated surfaces.
  • Dehydration – Ensure your dog has access to cool, fresh water at all times.
  • Heatstroke – Symptoms include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, confusion, and collapse. This is a medical emergency and needs immediate vet attention.
  • Cars and conservatories – Never leave your dog in a parked car or enclosed space as temperatures can reach fatal levels within minutes, even with a window cracked.

Josh Williams, owner of Dog Friendly Retreats, comments:

“Barbecues are such a key part of summer, but they come with a lot of hidden hazards for dogs. Between hot weather and dropped food, it only takes a moment for something to go wrong. Whether it’s a skewer left unattended or a guest offering scraps, it’s important to keep a close eye on your dog and educate others too.”

Safe BBQ Snacks to Share with Your Dog

Your dog can still be part of the fun – just safely! Here are a few dog-friendly BBQ options:

  • Plain, boneless, skinless chicken or turkey – A lean protein treat, as long as it’s unseasoned and thoroughly cooked.
  • Cucumber or carrot sticks – Cool, crunchy, and hydrating.
  • Apple slices (no seeds) – A sweet and fibre-rich fruit option.
  • Blueberries or strawberries – Packed with antioxidants and safe in moderation.

Scottish Ambulance Service: Hot Weather Advice

It’s going to be a hot couple of days, so whilst enjoying the weather, make sure you keep yourself well by:

Staying hydrated

Wearing sun cream and protective clothing

Sticking to the shade during peak heat hours

Check on elderly relatives/neighbours

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde issues sun and warm weather health advice

Members of the public are being encouraged to stay safe in the sun as the current warm weather is expected to continue into this weekend.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) advised people to ensure they are protected from the sun, and to take care when barbecuing to prevent food poisoning. 

It also highlighted the importance of getting the right care in the right place if help is needed for a health concern. 

Common health conditions during nicer weather can include sunburn, food poisoning, bites and stings.

NHSGGC also highlighted the importance of keeping items like over-the-counter medicines, a first aid kit and an ice pack at home to help manage minor cuts, bruises, sprains and strains.

NHSGGC is asking people to consider the following: 

  • Sunburn and sunstroke – Always cover up in the sun to protect yourself and your family from burns and heat exhaustion. This includes wearing a high-factor sunscreen and appropriate clothing and spending time in the shade. 
  • Food poisoning – Barbecuing can lead to food poisoning if it is not done correctly. Ensure meat is cooked thoroughly and evenly, and keep cooked and raw food separate. 
  • Medicines – Make sure you have over-the-counter medicines at home for common illnesses including paracetamol or ibuprofen, remedies for bites and stings and antihistamines for allergies. 
  • First aid – Keep a first aid kit in your home with plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes for cuts, and an ice pack for minor strains or sprains. 

For those requiring support or medical treatment for non-life-threatening conditions, there is a range of services available to help, and NHSGGC continues to ask people to ‘think ABC’ before attending A&E:

Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, visit the NHS Inform website or download the NHS24 app.

Be aware: There is help for many conditions right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or optician offer a range of services. This could include directing you to a Minor Injuries Unit or arranging an appointment for you with NHSGGC’s Virtual A&E Flow Navigation Centre. 

Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.

If you think your condition or injury is very urgent or life-threatening, you should call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

For more information on accessing the care you need, please go to: Right Care, Right Place – NHSGGC.

Dr Emilia Crighton, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Director of Public Health, said: “This is a great time to get outside and enjoy warmer weather and longer days with friends and family.

“Please enjoy the good weather safely by covering up when in the sun, staying hydrated and making sure food is properly cooked if barbecued”.

“For those who do require support over this period, we want people to be aware that there are many services available to them other than emergency departments.

“By using NHS 24’s digital resources and through 111, people who need care can be seen by the most appropriate staff in the most appropriate setting.

“We ask everyone to think ABC before A&E. This will ensure you get the right care in the right place, will help reduce waiting times, and free up capacity for those who need it most.”

Rabies case confirmed following contact with animal abroad

UKHSA is reminding travellers to be careful around animals when travelling to rabies affected countries

A woman from the UK has sadly died after becoming infected with rabies, following contact with a stray dog during a visit to Morocco. The individual was diagnosed in Yorkshire and the Humber.  

There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case as there is no documented evidence of rabies passing between people. However, as a precautionary measure, health workers and close contacts are being assessed and offered vaccination when necessary. 

Rabies is passed on through injuries such as bites and scratches from an infected animal. It is nearly always fatal, but post-exposure treatment is very effective at preventing disease if given promptly after exposure to the virus.  

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding travellers to be careful around animals when travelling to rabies affected countries due to the risk of catching the disease.

Dr Katherine Russell, Head of Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, at UKHSA, said: “I would like to extend my condolences to this individual’s family at this time. 

“If you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found then you should wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water and seek medical advice without delay in order to get post-exposure treatment to prevent rabies.

“There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case. Human cases of rabies are extremely rare in the UK, and worldwide there are no documented instances of direct human-to-human transmission.”

Rabies does not circulate in either wild or domestic animals in the UK, although some species of bats can carry a rabies-like virus. No human cases of rabies acquired in the UK from animals other than bats have been reported since 1902.  

Between 2000 and 2024 there were 6 cases of human rabies associated with animal exposures abroad reported in the UK. 

Rabies is common in other parts of the world, especially in Asia and Africa. All travellers to rabies affected countries should avoid contact with dogs, cats and other animals wherever possible, and seek advice about the need for rabies vaccine prior to travel. 

You should take immediate action to wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water, if:  

  • you’ve been bitten or scratched by an animal while you’re abroad in a country with rabies 
  • an animal has licked your eyes, nose or mouth, or licked a wound you have, while you’re abroad in a country with rabies 
  • you’ve been bitten or scratched by a bat in the UK

Local medical advice should be sought without delay, even in those who have been previously vaccinated. 

When given promptly after an exposure, a course of rabies post-exposure treatment is extremely effective at preventing the disease.

If such an exposure occurs abroad, the traveller should also consult their doctor on return, so that the course of rabies treatment can be completed. If travellers have not sought medical advice abroad, they should contact their doctor promptly upon return for assessment. 

Rabies – Information for travel leaflet. Public Health England. Product code: 400322RT. Gateway Number: 2024664.
Rabies – Information for travel leaflet. Public Health England. Product code: 400322RT. Gateway Number: 2024664.

For more information on the risk of rabies in different countries, see the country information pages on the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s (NaTHNaC’s) website, TravelHealthPro. 

For more general information about rabies, see the NHS website or the UKHSA leaflet on rabies risks for travellers.

NSPCC calls for all children in Scotland to have access to relationships and sex education

  • Relevant and consistent relationships and sex education is fundamental to encouraging positive behaviour and helps protect children from abuse
  • Provision of this education in Scotland is patchy and inconsistent
  • NSPCC calls for statutory duty to provide, more detailed guidance and greater prioritisation in the curriculum

The NSPCC is calling for all schools in Scotland to provide age-appropriate, consistent and relevant relationships and sex education to children and young people, as it reveals that over two-thirds of adults (67%) in Scotland believe it should be compulsory.

The YouGov survey, commissioned by the NSPCC, of over 1,000 adults across Scotland, also found that at least 90% of adults think it is important that relationships and sex education should include children and young people being taught about healthy and unhealthy friendships and relationships (90%); the types of abuse and how to seek help (94%); and online risks including risks of sending and sharing nude images of someone under the age of 18 (93%).

Despite the public backing for all schools in Scotland to teach relationships and sex education, the NSPCC has found from its campaigns work across the country that young people consider the delivery of Relationships, Sexual Health and Parenthood (RSHP) education patchy and insufficient. The charity believes that without a stronger statutory foundation, many children will miss out on vital knowledge that could protect them from harm.

NSPCC research and international studies show that consistent, relevant, inclusive and age-appropriate relationships and sex education helps children and young people:

  • Understand healthy and unhealthy relationships
  • Develop empathy, respect and responsibility in relationships
  • Recognise inappropriate behaviour and abuse
  • Speak up and seek help when something is wrong
  • Navigate online risks and pressures

There is also evidence to show it plays a crucial role in breaking down barriers and taboos, giving young people the language to express their experiences, and fosters a positive school culture, helping to tackle poor behaviour.

While RSHP is part of the health and wellbeing area of Curriculum for Excellence, local areas have discretion about what is taught and when. National guidance on RSHP is currently being redeveloped following a consultation carried out by the Scottish Government in 2023.

To ensure every child in Scotland receives appropriate, high-quality relationships and sex education, the NSPCC Scotland is calling for:

  • Statutory duty for education authorities to provide it
  • Stronger recognition of children and young people’s right to this education, and their right to be involved in its delivery, in line with the UN’s Convention on the Rights of the Child
  • Clear and practical guidance for schools with examples of how RSHP should be delivered and tools to track and measure children’s learning
  • Adequate funding, professional training, time and resources for teachers to deliver effective RSHP
  • Regular monitoring and review by Education Scotland

Joanna Barrett, NSPCC Associate Head of Policy, said: “We believe it’s crucial that every child and young person in Scotland has access to high-quality, inclusive, relevant and age-appropriate RSHP education.

“It is essential to preventing abuse, and teaches young people about how to recognise healthy, unhealthy and abusive behaviours in others and themselves. However, we know from our work with young people that not all pupils in Scotland receive consistent education in this area.

“All other countries in the UK have recognised the importance of this education and have placed it on a statutory footing. It is critical that the Scottish Government shows it truly values RSHP education by upholding the rights of every child to receive it and ensuring teachers and schools are adequately resourced to deliver it.”

Bold Girls Ken, delivered in partnership with NSPCC Scotland, Perth and Kinross Council and the Young Women’s Movement, saw young women from Perthshire campaign for greater awareness of healthy relationships and consent, on and offline.

Fatima Ishaq, a participant of Young Women Know, said: “Better quality RSHP education is vital. From my experience, and so many other young people across the country, RSHP education is inconsistent and fails to reflect the diverse lived experiences of young people.

“By creating safe and non-judgemental spaces for young people to speak openly about topics like healthy relationships, we can empower them and build their knowledge and confidence.

“High quality RSHP means young people can better understand their bodies, feelings, rights and the experiences of others; reducing stigma and supporting young people to make informed choices.”

Young people looking for support on any of the issues mentioned, can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit Childline.org.uk. Childline is available to all young people until their 19th birthday.