Tag: Children and Families

Pools in Edinburgh dive into life-saving lessons for Drowning Prevention Week

Over 8,300 youngsters to learn vital water safety skills this June

IT’S NOT just about front crawl and backstrokes, Learn to Swim lessons in Edinburgh Leisure are teaching children how to be safer in and around water during this month to mark Drowning Prevention Week as part of a Scotland-wide campaign.

From Shetland to the Borders, swimming pools are adapting and transforming their regular swimming lessons into workshops which will focus specifically on water safety knowledge and skills.

Swimmers are set to learn the crucial Water Safety Code as well as basic floating techniques which can make a massive difference when someone feels in danger in the water and that could help save their lives or someone else’s.

The special lessons come as latest figures reveal the ongoing risks around Scotland’s waters, the National Water Safety Forum reported that tragically in 2024 there were 33 accidental drownings in Scotland.

Drowning prevention is one of the main objectives for the Learn to Swim National Framework and in June each year the programme does a major water safety push to coincide with Drowning Prevention Week, where youngsters take part in a bespoke water safety swim lesson delivered by the leisure trusts and aquatic providers.

John Lunn, CEO of Scottish Swimming, said: “Every June, our Learn to Swim classes shift focus to concentrate on water safety.

“It’s not just about being a strong swimmer- understanding how to recognise hazards, help others in distress and make smart decisions around water is equally important.”

Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, added: “”We cannot over-emphasise the importance of water safety all year round, but it’s particularly relevant as we approach summer when people are often more likely to be around water.

“These water safety lessons provide an opportunity to equip people with the vital knowledge and skills to help them feel safer in, on and around water, and help their parents and family network feel confident and comfortable in their swimming abilities.”

The Learn to Swim National Framework is delivered by 38 leisure trusts and aquatic providers in 167 pools from Shetland to the Borders with the vision of creating “Generation Swim”, a generation of children who are confident, safer and competent swimmers, who will also get to experience the wider health and social benefits that swimming can offer.

The programme currently reaches around 82,000 children across Scotland who will have access to a new interactive water safety quiz that has been developed to improve water safety knowledge this year.

The Learn to Swim National Framework is committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and quality environments in which individuals can learn to swim regardless of their age, ability or skill level.

Drowning Prevention Week, organised by the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS), stands as one of the largest water safety campaigns in the UK and Ireland.

For more information on Learn to Swim can be found on its website: https://learntoswim.scot/

Expanding access to childcare

More than £1.5 million targeted funding over two years

Families most at risk of living in poverty are benefitting from expanded childcare offers through projects backed by the Scottish Government’s Access to Childcare Funding.

Almost £1.5 million funding will support the seven initiatives situated in areas from Glasgow to Shetland over the next two years. Organisations will use funding to deliver free or subsidised breakfast clubs, after-school clubs, term-time and holiday childcare, as well as specialist provision for children with complex additional support needs. The expanded childcare offers for these families is improving outcomes for children while also supporting parents and carers to enter or sustain employment.

Confirming the funding, Children’s Minister Natalie Don-Innes met families attending an after-school club at Fairview Primary run by Support, Help, and Integration in Perthshire (SHIP).

SHIP provides after school and holiday clubs for children aged 5-18 years with complex additional support needs, sensory and physical disabilities.

Ms Don-Innes said: “Since 2020, we have provided over £4.5 million through the Access to Childcare Fund to support projects delivering activities, childcare, food and family support.

“Eradicating child poverty is the Scottish Government’s defining mission, and we know what a difference access to affordable school-age childcare can make for families that need it most.

“The projects receiving Access to Childcare Funding over the next two years are demonstrating the important role that school age childcare services play in supporting children’s health, wellbeing and relationships, and in enabling more parents and carers to balance caring for their children with work commitments, thereby helping increase household income.”

Lucas and Marc are 16 years old and have autism. They have been supported by SHIP since they were five years old. Their dad Brian said: “SHIP has played a critical role in providing our sons with social opportunities and vital support with meeting their sensory needs that we would not as a family been able to.

“The term time clubs and holiday clubs have provided year round support for the boys, and the happiness and confidence this has given them is genuinely immeasurable.” 

SHIP will receive £273,000 funding over two financial years through the Fairer Funding pilot. General Manager at SHIP Nicola Schelbert said: “SHIP provides essential support for children and young people aged from 5–18 with complex needs, delivering youth clubs, Saturday clubs, after-school and holiday clubs.

“Access to Childcare Funding supports our after school clubs and childcare spaces at our holiday club, which enables parents to work or take respite.

“Families we work with tell us that without SHIP, continuing employment would be impossible, which would have a negative impact on their families’ wellbeing.

“This vital service strengthens families and ensures children receive the support they need.”

Breakdown of latest Access to Childcare Fund projects and funding:

Fairer funding pilot – funding over next two financial years

  • SHIP is a parent-led childcare provider in Perthshire providing holiday clubs and after-school clubs for children with complex additional support needs, sensory and physical disabilities aged 5-18 – £135,000 in 2025-26, £138,000 in 2026-27
  • St Mirin’s Out of School Club delivers free or subsidised childcare for children aged 4-12 with term-time indoor and outdoor play at breakfast clubs, after school clubs and a holiday club in Glasgow – £135,005.92 in 2025-26, £141,787.72 in 2026-27
  • Indigo offers both childcare and family support through their family matters programme for families in Castlemilk. They provide children aged 4-12 with breakfast clubs and after school clubs and holiday clubs – £196,325 in 2025-26, £196,325 in 2026-27
  • Stepping Stones for Families provides a School Age Childcare service at their Flexible Childcare centre in Possilpark Glasgow.  They deliver school-age childcare for children aged 5-12 years during term time as well as during the school holidays – £77,531 in 2025-26, £79.450 in 2026-27
  • SupERkids is led by volunteer parents of disabled children and provides children aged 5-18 with additional support needs with after-school activities during term-time, as well as offering unsupported family activities during holidays in East Renfrewshire – £98,700 in 2025-26, £103,635 in 2026-27

Grant funding – financial year 25-26 only

  • Hame Fae Hame provides wraparound childcare for children aged 5-12 with a breakfast club and after school subsidised childcare during term-time, and childcare during school holidays and in-service days, in Scalloway, Shetland – £37.880 in 2025-26
  • The Wee Childcare Company provides after-school clubs for children aged 4-12, after-school clubs and 25 days of holiday provision across four sites in Angus, with breakfast clubs at two of these – £218,360.44 in 2025-26

Walking charity steps into new era with new name and bold rebrand

PATHS FOR ALL HAS BEEN RENAMED WALKING SCOTLAND

  • New name signals commitment to making Scotland more active

SCOTLAND’S national walking and wheeling charity has today announced it has rebranded, marking a bold new chapter after almost 30 years of empowering people to walk more, move more and enjoy the outdoors.

Walking Scotland has officially unveiled its new identity, replacing its long-established name, Paths for All, to better reflect its mission and growing impact across the country.

The change signals the charity’s renewed commitment to embedding walking and wheeling into the everyday lives of Scots, enhancing health, wellbeing and sustainability.

From local Health Walks to national policy changes, the organisation has built meaningful partnerships and inspired communities to enjoy the benefits of active travel.

This rebrand follows their ‘Every Day in May’ campaign as part of National Walking Month, which encouraged people across Scotland to walk daily and to discover the profound social, physical, and mental benefits that even short walks can bring.

The charity’s new name reinforces its position as the country’s national authority on walking and wheeling – building on decades of proven impact while setting ambitious goals for the future. It envisions a Scotland where everyone, regardless of who they are or where they live has access to safe, welcoming environments to walk and wheel.

Walking Scotland’s launch follows overwhelming support for a clearer, bolder brand that better communicates its purpose and makes it easier for people to get involved – whether through walking, wheeling, supporting or donating.

The shift also reflects the growing recognition of walking as a low-cost, high-impact solution to a range of societal challenges, from health inequalities to the climate-nature emergency.

Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive of Walking Scotland said: “This isn’t just a name change, it’s a renewed commitment to putting walking and wheeling at the heart of everyday life in Scotland.

“For almost 30 years, we’ve made a real difference in communities across the country. But we’re not done yet. Walking changes lives – it improves health, connects people and helps address some of Scotland’s biggest challenges.

“Walking Scotland reflects a fresh and inclusive identity that truly captures the scale of our ambition for the next 30 years. We want everyone in Scotland to be able to walk and wheel, everywhere, every day.

“The feedback from our stakeholders, communities and partners has been incredibly positive – this brand resonates and will help us reach more people and grow our impact.”

The organisation points to a growing body of evidence that supports its mission. According to the most recent national attitudes survey, over 77% of Scots agree that walking helps to clear their minds and improve their mood.

Crucially, walking is free, widely accessible, and requires no special equipment, making it a simple yet powerful tool in the fight against inactivity, social isolation, and pressure on the NHS.

To find out more about Walking Scotland, visit: www.walkingscotland.org.uk

New research reveals parents don’t know where to seek support

Children First has uncovered a staggering 85% of parents in Scotland feel they have nowhere to turn when bringing up children becomes tough. The charity is urging parents and carers to get in touch with their free support line and webchat service which provides emotional, practical and financial help for families.

Scotland’s national children’s charity, who recently declared a childhood emergency in Scotland, described the findings as ‘extremely troubling’. 

Children First chief executive Mary Glasgow said, “The fact that almost nine out of ten parents in Scotland don’t know where to seek advice and support when bringing up children gets tough is extremely troubling.

“Every day our teams hear from parents and carers from across Scotland that raising their babies, children and teenagers is harder than ever. Many are at a loss, not knowing where to turn for support. Children do well when families do well, so this must change.

“We are urging parents who are struggling, feeling overwhelmed, have a feeling that something isn’t quite right or who just need to hear a friendly voice to get in touch with our support line on 08000 28 22 33 or start a webchat at childrenfirst.org.uk.

“All stages of growing up bring their own unique challenges. Whatever you are worried about we’re here for you. We know being a parent can be tough. Whether you’re concerned about baby milestones, toddler tantrums, social media, bullying, exam stress or mental health you are not alone. Children First is here for children and here for families.”

For over 140 years Children First have been trusted by thousands of parents and carers to help keep young people safe and well. Every year the charity puts millions of pounds back into the pockets of families by helping them claim the benefits and entitlements they are due.

Mary Glasgow continued: “With one in four children living in poverty in Scotland and around 100 referrals a day being made to child and adolescent mental health services, bringing up children is harder than ever.

“Our support line is a lifeline for families who desperately need advice. No child should suffer because the adults in their life don’t have anyone to turn to.”

Kinship carer Tony* who is bringing up his two-year old granddaughter Cara* and had been struggling to make ends meet, said: “It was only when Children First support line got involved that things started to get better. I feel like a massive weight has been lifted off my shoulders, it’s such a relief.”

Mum Lucy* shared that she “received fantastic support both online and via phone, regarding a concern for my son’s emotional wellbeing.”

Young person Ollie* said: “My Children First recovery worker saved my life quite a few times. Without her I would have been lost. She helped me believe I could get through it.”

The support line is also available for anyone who is concerned a child in their community may be at risk of experiencing abuse or neglect.

Ms Glasgow explained, “We all need to look out for children who can’t protect themselves and they need our help to stay safe. If you have concerns about a child’s wellbeing it can be difficult to know what to do.

“Please don’t leave it to chance. Our support line will listen and help you work through what’s best for the child.”

If a child is in immediate danger call the police on 999.

Families can call the Children First support line for free on 08000 28 22 33 or visit www.childrenfirst.org.uk to start a web chat from 9am – 9pm, Monday to Friday or 9am – 12 noon Saturday and Sunday.

From advice on mental health, money worries and online harm, to struggles at school, Children First’s support line gave expert help and advice to more than 2,500 families and supported over 9,400 people in 2024.

Last year, more than two thirds of families contacting the support line were worried about their child’s emotional wellbeing and half rang with concerns about family relationships. 

£5.5 million for ‘Extra Time’ football partnership with SFA

Funding boost for activities clubs for children from low income families

Funding of £5.5 million for the Extra Time programme, which provides free activities clubs before school, after school and during the school holidays for primary age pupils, will support families on low incomes outwith school.

On a visit to the St Mirren Charitable Foundation’s Extra Time service at Kirklandneuk Primary School in Renfrew, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville saw how the programme is helping parents to get into and stay in work or training, or increase their working hours.

The 2025 Extra Time Evaluation Report, published today by the Scottish FA, highlights the potential for the scheme to support the Scottish Government’s priorities of growing the economy and eradicating child poverty.

Ms Somerville said: “The Extra Time programme is helping us to better understand how providing activities clubs before school, after school and during the holidays can improve outcomes for families on low incomes by supporting parents into work, training, studying or providing respite.

“We are increasing our funding by £1.5 million to invest £5.5 million this year to expand the Extra Time Programme – increasing the number of football clubs and trusts we are working with from 31 to 53. This national programme will provide around 5,000 children and their families on low incomes with access to vital services.

“The evaluation demonstrates that, as well as helping realise our priorities in growing the economy and eradicating child poverty, the Extra Time programme is supporting kids with their school attendance and attainment, helping tackle food insecurity and improving children’s health and wellbeing.”

Ian Maxwell, Chief Executive of the Scottish Football Association, said: “Today’s announcement of increased funding for the Extra Time programme is a significant boost, and testament to the success of the initiative and the impact it continues to have on families across the country.

“While this may be a football-based programme, with obvious health and education benefits to children who participate, the positive effects of Extra Time are felt throughout the entire family and it is another example of how the power of football makes a tangible difference across Scotland.

“We are grateful to the Scottish Government for this additional investment which will allow clubs to continue to bring Extra Time to life. It’s a hugely worthwhile programme and something we’re delighted to be involved in.”

Scottish FA Extra Time impact report

Christmas at the Botanics returns, promising new lights, enchanting sounds and a touch of romance

Festive fans can get a head start on the season as tickets go on sale for one of Scotland’s most popular winter attractions – Christmas at the Botanics!

Now in its ninth year, the beloved light trail will once again bring winter magic to the season, transforming the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh into an immersive world of light, colour, and festive cheer.

Last year, the trail welcomed over 92,000 visitors – confirming its status as a must-see festive experience in Scotland’s capital.

Running from 20 November to 30 December, this year’s trail will run for 36 nights, featuring three dedicated quiet nights. These offer a more relaxed and accessible environment for those who prefer a calmer atmosphere, allowing everyone to experience the wonder.

This year’s after-dark spectacle invites visitors to explore both new bespoke installations and returning fan favourites. Among them are the cherished Santa sightings and iconic Christmas Cathedral, which will feature an enchanting new twinkle effect.

New installations confirmed for 2025 include:

  • Night Birds – featuring a flock of five oversized birds that spread their brilliant neon-lit feathers wide to illuminate the night sky. Created by Michael Young.
  • Heart Arch Walk – a tunnel of love made from large LED hearts that set the Christmas mood with a jolly red glow, creating another perfect picture spot on the trail. Created by ArtAV.
  • Laser Lights – displaying thousands of slowly rotating coloured laser beams that burst through an atmospheric fog, this installation brings a truly immersive experience to the trail. Created by Culture Creative.

Each piece has been curated not only for its visual impact but also for its low-energy design and environmental sensitivity to the Botanics’ historic surroundings.

Credit Geraint Lewis

Regius Keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Simon Milne said: “Each year, our trail organisers work tirelessly to transform our Garden into an exciting nocturnal showcase, and this year is no exception.

“Visitors can experience the Garden from a fresh perspective, discovering new artistic installations and cherished favourites amongst our incredible collection of plants.

“Every ticket sold for Christmas at the Botanics supports our vital work in conservation, research and education, helping us to protect the world’s plants for future generations. If you’re looking for outdoor fun with friends and family this winter, join us on the trail and immerse yourself in the festivities while making a difference.”

Tickets for this year’s show are on sale now. With limited slots and popular dates expected to sell out, early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. For further ticket information, pricing, and timings, please visit:

 https://www.mychristmastrails.co.uk/events/christmas-at-the-botanics.

Christmas at the Botanics is one of 12 illuminated trails staged across the UK by leading events promoter Raymond Gubbay Limited, a division of Sony Music. Christmas at the Botanics is presented in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and creative producer Culture Creative.

For more details visit www.rbge.org.uk/christmas and follow @mychristmastrails on Facebook and Instagram.

Latest version of Ready Steady Baby! available now

The latest version of Ready, Steady, Baby! is now available.

Everyone who is pregnant and lives in Scotland will receive a free printed copy from their midwife (also available in other formats and languages). It’s also available on NHS inform.

https://nhsinform.scot/ready-steady-baby

826,000 families boost finances with childcare savings

  • Almost 826,000 UK families shared £632.2 million in government top-ups towards their childcare bills with Tax-Free Childcare in the 2024 to 2025 tax year
  • Working families urged to sign up now to give their summer plans a financial boost
  • Supporting the government’s mission to grow the economy and deliver on the Plan for Change

Nearly 826,000 working families saved up to £2,000 per child with Tax-Free Childcare in the 2024 to 2025 tax year. The money helps families pay for their childcare, as part of the government’s Plan for Change to put more money in people’s pockets.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is encouraging those yet to sign up for Tax-Free Childcare, to do it now and give their summer plans a financial boost. 

Latest figures from HMRC show in March 2025, 36,095 families in Scotland used the scheme to save on their annual childcare bills, an increase of 4,925 families compared to the previous March. 

Working families who sign up to Tax-Free Childcare can boost their annual budget by up to £2,000 per child up to the age of 11 or up to £4,000 up to the age of 16 for a disabled child.

Parents can use the scheme to help towards the cost of approved childcare whether that’s nursery for younger children, or for older children – wraparound or after school care clubs during term time or holiday clubs for the long summer holidays ahead.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: “Summer can be an expensive time if you have children. Whatever you’re planning, Tax-Free Childcare can give your plans a welcome financial boost. Go to GOV.UK to start saving today.”

For every £8 deposited in a Tax-Free Childcare account, the government tops it by £2, which means parents can receive up to £500 (or £1,000 if their child is disabled) every 3 months towards paying for their childcare costs.

Once families have opened a Tax-Free Childcare account, they can deposit money and use it straight away or keep it in the account to use it whenever it’s needed. Any unused money in the account can be withdrawn at any time.   

Families could be eligible for Tax-Free Childcare if they:      

  • have a child or children aged 11 or under. They stop being eligible on 1 September after their 11th birthday. If their child has a disability, they receive up to £4,000 a year until 1 September after their 16th birthday   
  • the parent and their partner (if they have one) earn, or expect to earn, at least the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage for 16 hours a week, on average   
  • each earn no more than £100,000 per annum   
  • do not receive Universal Credit or childcare vouchers       

Visit GOV.UK to check eligibility and register for Tax-Free Childcare.

Tax-Free Childcare can be used alongside the free childcare hours subject to eligibility.

Successful year for the 35th Edinburgh International Children’s Festival

  • 87% of all Tickets sold
  • Over 17,000 attendance (11% increase from 2024)
  • Returning 30 May – 7 June 2026
Counterflows_6 April 2025

The 35th Edinburgh International Children’s Festival (24 May to 1 June) enjoyed a busy year with 87% of all tickets sold and over 17,000 children and their families, school pupils and industry professionals flocking to venues across the city, to enjoy world-class theatre, dance and circus.

Kicking off with a packed Family Day at the National Museum of Scotland on Saturday 24 May, attended by a record audience of 7,460 the Festival continued with a full week of Scottish and international shows attended by families and 3,615 pupils from 41 schools across Edinburgh including nursery, primary and secondary schools. 

The shows included work from 7 different countries and the premiere of new commission Tongue Twister created and performed by Scottish artist Greg Sinclair and commissioned in partnership with Aberdeen Performing Arts.

Imaginate Family Day_National Museum of Scotland_24th May 2025

The show which features Greg attempting to say tongue twisters in as many different languages as possible, delighted its audiences with its language antics and gorgeous costumes. “That was the bestest show in the world!” (child)

Tongue Twister is touring to the Light the Blue Festival this weekend in Aberdeen. 

The Festival also enjoyed a run of the 2024 ‘must-see’ Fringe show The Show for Young Men performed by Robbie Synge and young performer Alfie exploring topical ideas around masculinity and male friendship, and finished on a high with 6 sell-out performances of Double You, a raucous and high energy circus production from Belgium hosted in Portobello Town Hall.

Young audiences from infancy to S1 at Edinburgh International Children’s Festival.

As well as families and schools, the Festival welcomed over 310 delegates from festivals and arts organisations in 30 different countries including Australia, Hungary, Thailand and Norway also attended the Festival.

The delegate programme provided a platform for programmers, producers and artists to see and discuss high-quality work, share work in progress and network with peers from all over the world.  In addition to the delegates who attended in person, 56 more attended the digital delegate programme online. 

Counterflows_6 April 2025

The much-anticipated new commission the Unlikely Friendship of Feather Boy and Tentacle Girl which unfortunately was cancelled at the last minute due to a performer injury, plans to open in August for this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe as part of the Made in Scotland Showcase.

The Edinburgh International Children’s Festival will return in 2026 from 30 May to 7 June under new direction, following Noel Jordan’s announcement earlier this year that after 10 successful years at the helm, he will be standing down and returning to Australia in November.

Counterflows_6 April 2025

Festival Director Noel Jordan, said: “​“From uplifting productions celebrating the diversity of our global sector and centred around the perspective and viewpoint of the child, to incredible industry panel discussions and provocations, what a fantastic week this has been.

“As my final Festival I could not have been prouder. With such an incredible and dedicated team behind it I am sure the Festival will continue to go from strength to strength. Thank you to all our audiences, funders, supporters and performers who make this festival such a joyous experience.”

www.imaginate.org.uk/festival