Tag: Children and Families

Balamory’s coming back!

Filming begins on new series to premiere on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer next year

  • Blending familiar faces with a host of new characters, the new series will offer preschoolers a joyful mix of stories, comedy, songs and adventures

CBeebies and Lion Television Scotland have released a first-look picture showing Miss Hoolie (Julie Wilson Nimmo) as filming gets underway on location in Tobermory, the real-life Isle of Mull town that inspired the show’s iconic setting.

The new series will blend familiar faces with a host of new characters, offering preschoolers a joyful mix of stories, comedy, songs and adventures.

At its heart remains the charming fictional town of Balamory and its lively inhabitants, where brightly-coloured houses cluster around a scenic harbour and life revolves around the nursery school and its caring teacher.

Original stars of Balamory, Julie Wilson Nimmo (Miss Hoolie), Andrew Agnew (PC Plum), Kim Tserkezie (Penny Pocket) and Juliet Cadzow (Edie McCredie) are set to reprise their roles when the revamped series airs next year on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.

The new series will blend familiar faces with a host of new characters, offering preschoolers a joyful mix of stories, comedy, songs and adventures. At its heart remains the charming fictional town of Balamory and its lively inhabitants, where brightly-coloured houses cluster around a scenic harbour and life revolves around the nursery school and its caring teacher.

Brand new characters include scientist and inventor Ava Potts (played by Danielle Jam), the Harbour Master (William Andrews) and local vet Dr Ollie (Carl Spencer) who lives with his two children.

Originally produced from 2002 to 2005, Balamory became a staple of early childhood entertainment. Now, more than two decades later, it’s being lovingly reimagined for today’s families, retaining its original spirit while introducing fresh elements to captivate young viewers.

Filming will take place both in studio in Glasgow and on location in Tobermory, the real-life Isle of Mull town that inspired the show’s iconic setting.

Kate Morton, Senior Head of Children’s Commissioning 0-6 BBC Children’s and Education says: “It’s wonderful to see some of the original cast returning alongside new faces, creating a perfect mix of nostalgia and discovery for families to enjoy together.

“This vibrant new series will delight both children and the grown-ups who remember it fondly.”

Commissioned for two new series (10 x 14-minute episodes each), the show will continue its tradition of home-grown storytelling about the much-loved nursery school and the small island community that surrounds it. Families can look forward to exploring the world of Balamory once again from 2026.

Produced by Lion Television Scotland, an All3Media company, the return of Balamory promises to be a joyful celebration of community, curiosity and colourful characters.

Lisa Hazlehurst, Head of Lion Television Scotland, is the Executive Producer, Adrian Mead is Director and Jacqueline Sinclair is the Series Producer. The series was commissioned by Kate Morton for BBC Children’s and Education. Mark Barton is the BBC Commissioning Executive.

Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment

Improving access to support for disabled people

A landmark independent review of Adult Disability Payment (ADP) has called for a simplified and more accessible application process, urging the Scottish Government to protect and improve access to support for disabled people.

Led by experienced charity leader, Edel Harris OBE, the review highlights that while Adult Disability Payment is significantly more compassionate than the UK benefit it replaced, some people still face barriers, complexity and distress when applying for the benefit.

While the review notes that there are several welcome changes such as the cessation of DWP-style assessments and recognises the compassionate approach of Social Security Scotland staff, it concludes that there is still more that can be done to deliver a truly human-rights based approach.

Edel Harris, Chair of the Adult Disability Payment Review, said: “Adult Disability Payment has been described by many as a step change – kinder in tone and more dignified in approach. But too often, disabled people still find the system difficult to navigate, time-consuming, and anxiety-inducing.

“I heard consistently that if we are to realise social security as an investment in people, it is important to ensure that the eligibility criteria fulfil this goal.

“This review highlights the importance of a system that is not only compassionate, but practical and accessible. The recommendations are based on real experiences and a shared commitment to making Adult Disability Payment work better for everyone who needs it.”

The review engaged extensively with disabled people and the organisations that support them. It drew on evidence from a public consultation, written submissions, in-person and online events, and the lived experience of an advisory group made up of third sector representatives, disabled people and people with long-term health-conditions.

Over the course of the review, Edel Harris also met with stakeholder groups, third sector organisations, and officials from the Scottish Government and Social Security Scotland to understand a variety of experiences of Adult Disability Payment.

The review makes over 50 recommendations including:

  • Enhancing the client experience and embedding trauma-informed, stigma-free approaches.
  • Simplifying the application form and improving the decision-making process.
  • Training, guidance, and clearer communication for staff and clients.
  • Reviewing eligibility criteria and improving fairness in decision-making.

A key recommendation from the review is that eligibility should be based on the real-life experience of clients and not just on a list of activities. It also recommends that the application process should be made easier for those with fluctuating conditions and mental health problems and take into consideration the environment in which the person lives.

The report also calls for sustainable funding for welfare advice services, more inclusive communication, and automatic entitlement in some circumstances.

Edel visited Inspire by Community Integrated Care an Aberdeen-based charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and additional support needs. The visit offered an insight into the role of social security in promoting independence, inclusion, and dignity.

Community Integrated Care’s Managing Director for Scotland, Sara Murphy, said: “It was a privilege to welcome Edel to our Inspire by Community Integrated Care service and show how financial support like Adult Disability Payment can make a visible difference in people’s lives.

“As a care provider, we see every day how inclusive, person-centred support enables people to build confidence, develop skills, and live more independently.

“We welcome the review’s call for a system that truly listens to disabled people and reflects their real-life experiences. We hope it leads to meaningful change that makes accessing support fairer, simpler, and more empowering for those who need it.”

The full report is available at: https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781836918912

The review was commissioned by the Scottish Government in February 2024 to examine the first year of Adult Disability Payment delivery, with the aim of identifying improvements to the eligibility framework, decision-making process and client experience.

International Day of Friendship 2025: Supporting a friend with their mental health

MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION

We all need a little help from our friends sometimes.💜

Friendship is a crucial element in protecting our mental health. Our friends can help to keep us grounded, put things in perspective, and manage/navigate life’s challenges. 🫂

Talking to friends about your mental health, and supporting a friend with a mental health problem, can be difficult to do.

We have tips on how to start a conversation, offer support, and look after yourself – check them out here: http://bit.ly/3GVqjps 🫶

#Besties

#InternationalDayOfFriendship

#FriendshipDay2025

Dobbies’ Edinburgh store unveils spellbinding lineup of autumn events

Activities for kids, adults, and dogs

A couple of girls in person clothing AI-generated content may be incorrect.

This October and November, Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to its trio of enchanting autumn events at the Edinburgh store, helping kick-start the season. There’s something for everyone, with events for dogs, kids and families, and a brand-new autumn planting and afternoon tea experience.

Pup-kin Patch

The Pup-kin Patch at Dobbies will be a fun outing for dogs where they can dig into treats, toys, and tail wagging fun. With activities from picking their own autumn themed toys, to enjoying a puppuccino from the restaurant, furry friends are bound to have a paw-esome outing. The event will also have a free digital photo opportunity for dogs to pose in front of an autumnal backdrop at the Edinburgh store, for a beautiful pet ‘paw-trait’.

A dog sitting in front of pumpkins AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Tickets to the event will also include special offers in the pet department, one free hot drink and puppuccino with the purchase of any cake from the restaurant, and £5 off £25 spend in store. Dobbies’ Pup-kin Patch will be taking place on Saturday 25, Sunday 26, Friday 31 October, and Saturday 1 November, tickets are £12.50 per dog. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking. 

Little Scare-lings – Witches, Wizards and Wicked Treats 

This Halloween, children and families can get ready to take part in some scarily fun activities and afternoon tea at the Edinburgh store Little Scare-lings event. There will be three tiers of savoury sandwiches and sweet treats for the children and spook-tacular tea and cake offers or afternoon tea add ons for adults.

Little ones will get to take part in slime and magic potion making to embrace their inner witches and wizards, alongside other magical activities and games. Dobbies is encouraging attendees to dress up in their spookiest costume as a prize will be awarded during a costume contest. 

The Little Scare-lings – Witches, Wizards and Wicked Treats is taking place on Saturday 18, Sunday 19, Saturday 25, Sunday 26, Friday 31 October, and Saturday 1 November, tickets are £15 per children and from £7.50 for adults. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking.

Planting and Afternoon Tea – Autumn Harvest Terrarium Workshop

Guests can enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea and autumn themed planting experience this October at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store. Dobbies’ Green Team will show attendees how to make their own seasonal terrariums with mini autumn decorations to take home and care for, starting with a demonstration, followed by a Q&A session and the chance to get hands-on and give it a go.

The experience will be followed by a three-tiered Traditional Afternoon Tea in the restaurant, including sweet and savoury treats, and unlimited tea and coffee refills. 

The Planting and Afternoon Tea – Autumn Harvest Terrarium Workshop will take place on the 11, 17, and 18 of October. Tickets are £45, and prosecco or a Luxury Afternoon Tea is available as an optional upgrade at an additional cost. Dates vary for each store so please check the website when booking.

Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson, is looking forward to welcoming customers, from families, dogs and planting enthusiasts, to Dobbies’ Edinburgh store this autumn. She said: “It’s fantastic to have such a variety of events on offer and there really is something for everyone to enjoy, with fun for all ages. 

“Tickets are selling fast for our planting and afternoon tea event, as it’s the perfect afternoon out for couples and friends who love to be creative. Our Little Scare-lings event is a firm favourite for families, with plenty of action-packed activities, and the Pup-kin Patch is back by popular demand, this year in more stores after it was such a hit last year. We can’t wait to celebrate autumn and Halloween with our customers this spooky season.”

Tickets to all autumn events at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store are now available to book at www.dobbies.com/events.

For more information on Dobbies’ events, visit www.dobbies.com/events

Oasis fans who missed out on tickets can ‘Roll With It’ to Fort Kinnaird

Fans who missed out on tickets to see Oasis at Murrayfield this summer can still enjoy the iconic anthems at Fort Kinnaird on Sunday 10th August, thanks to a free live performance by popular tribute band ‘Oasus’.

Oasus is set to bring the classic Wonderwall, Live Forever and Don’t Look Back in Anger anthems to the centre for the many fans who tried and failed to get tickets to the Scottish leg of the tour, coming to Murrayfield on Friday 8th August, Saturday 9th August and Tuesday 12th August.

This two-hour live gig will take over Fort Kinnaird’s Summer Stage near Pizza Hut, promising all the swagger, sound and 90s nostalgia of the real deal – minus the ticket fees and stadium crowds. Whether you’re a die-hard Gallagher fan or just fancy a fun Sunday with the family, it’s a brilliant way to soak up the buzz set to sweep the city. 

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “There’s so much excitement around the Oasis reunion gigs at Murrayfield, so it’s only right that we bring a bit of that buzz to Fort Kinnaird too.

“Oasus are a brilliant tribute act and their free show is the perfect chance for Oasis fans of all ages to get involved in the action. It’s a great way to spend a Sunday – grab a bite, enjoy the music and make a proper day of it with friends or family. Definitely Maybe also pick up an iconic bucket hat while you’re here too!”

The event is just one of the free events running at Fort Kinnaird this summer, designed to offer visitors of all ages memorable, free experiences.

This includes character visits between 11am – 4pm from Aloha Alien on Sunday 27th July, and a Wicked Duo on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd of August.

With more than 70 shops, a seven-screen ODEON cinema, and dining favourites including Wagamama, TGI Fridays and Nando’s, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re after a day of retail therapy, tasty food, or dancing to your favourite 90s bangers.

The centre is easy to reach too, just off the A1 with 2,600 free parking spaces and good public transport links.

For more details and to plan your day at Fort Kinnaird, please visit: 

https://www.fortkinnaird.com/event/lights-camera-summer

NSPCC and LEGO Group host Build & Talk online safety events for families

A partnership between the UK’s leading children’s charity and the LEGO Group will continue this summer with the launch of online safety sessions in Scotland.

The NSPCC is working with the LEGO Group to deliver a series of live events to parents and children in Scotland as part of the Build & Talk campaign.

Build & Talk sessions are led by NSPCC local campaigns teams and aim to help parents and carers have open conversations with children about online safety while building with LEGO® bricks. The aim is to help make discussions about online safety natural and normal, sharing good advice and learning while playing.

Carla Malseed, NSPCC Local Campaigns Manager for Scotland, said: “It’s essential that we speak openly and honestly with children about online safety. Linking these discussions to fun, hands-on activities—like building with LEGO® bricks—makes it easier for families to engage and connect.

“Across our local events, we’re sharing important insights about gaming and safe online habits in a way that encourages conversation. These sessions also offer a relaxed space for families to come together, enjoy free activities, chat with our team, and gain practical advice for staying safe online.”

Upcoming Build & Talk events will be held in the following locations:

  • Edinburgh Zoo Family Day (Scotland), Monday, July 28, 11am-3pm (included with general zoo admission cost)
  • Fringe by the Sea, North Berwick (Scotland), Tuesday, August 5, 10.30am – 4.30pm.
  • Play Day East Ayrshire, Kilmarnock (Scotland), Wednesday, August 6, 11am-3pm.

Diana Ringe Krogh, Vice President and Head of Social Responsibility at the LEGO Group, said: “We know many parents and caregivers want to feel more confident supporting their children in the digital world, especially when it comes to gaming.

“That’s why we’re excited to bring our new Build & Talk activities to community spaces across the UK this summer with the NSPCC. These sessions are designed to spark playful, open conversations about online play – helping families have fun, connect, and explore the digital world together.”

To find out more about the LEGO Group’s online safety activities and advice, click here, or to discover tips and guidance from the NSPCC regarding speaking to children about online safety, click here.

Childline joins forces with Police Scotland to support young people in custody

Children in police custody in Glasgow are being offered confidential support from Childline as part of a new initiative. 

The project, being run by the NSPCC, the children’s charity which delivers Childline, and Police Scotland, provides children in custody with information about the support service and offers them the chance to talk confidentially to a counsellor. 

Young people who find themselves in custody in Glasgow are being offered to call Childline, where experienced counsellors can give them advice and emotional support in a confidential setting. This is to help the young person through a difficult time and try to reduce the likelihood of reoffending. 

During the 10-week pilot period in Glasgow, 97% of the 107 young people brought into custody accepted the Childline leaflet. 

The initiative was originally launched in Merseyside in September 2023, before being rolled out in Cheshire in March 2024. 

Approximately 2,500 young people aged 10 to 17 and 1,000 18-year-olds in Merseyside and Cheshire have been told about the support available from Childline or seen a poster or leaflet with information about Childline. 

Being taken into police custody can be a frightening experience for young people, and many of those who have contacted Childline told counsellors they felt scared and alone. 

One 14-year-old told Childline*: “I’m in police custody again after arguing with my parents. It got violent, and they called the police. I’ll be released soon and I’m too scared to go home but I can’t leave my siblings there without my protection. Can you help me?”  

An 18-year-old said*: “It’s not my first time in custody and one of the hard things is it reminds you how alone you are. I was meant to speak to my young person’s advisor today but missed it because I’m in here. She’s all I have, and I know she’s so close on giving up on me. I know I’m not coping and need options, but I don’t have anyone else to turn to.” 

The idea for the scheme came from Deborah Rigby, a retired Merseyside police officer, who is now a supervisor at Childline in Liverpool. 

Through her work she realised that many young people who came into custody would benefit from the support that Childline offered. She approached Merseyside Police, and they saw the potential in a collaboration with Childline, then they worked together to make it happen. 

When a young person comes into custody, they are given the opportunity to receive emotional support, but they do not always take it because the offer has come from the police. This often results in young people being released without receiving the additional support they may need. 

Assistant Chief Constable for Police Scotland Criminal Justice Services Division, Wendy Middleton said: “We welcome this initiative which has been providing additional support to young people who come into custody in Glasgow. We look forward to rolling this out nationally and ensuring that the same support is available across Scotland. 

“We acknowledge that police custody can be a daunting and traumatic experience, particularly for children and young people.  It is important that they can speak to someone in confidence who can listen to them and potentially help to address wider problems that they are experiencing. Childline is a valuable partner in this regard.”

Adeniyi Alade, NSPCC Scotland Helplines Service Head, who is based at the Childline call centre in Aberdeen, said: “This partnership allows us to reach young people who may feel vulnerable and need someone to talk to for advice at what might be a very difficult time. There are many reasons a young person comes to be in police custody and it’s important they are given all the support they need.

“While we are working with the police, the support we offer young people will be completely confidential. As with all calls to Childline, our support will be independent, and the police will not be made aware of it.”

During the pilot period, children and young people up to the age of 17 brought into police custody were offered a call with a Childline counsellor.  

It is hoped that the initiative will be rolled out across Scotland after the NSPCC has assessed its impact in Glasgow. 

The police custody centre at London Road, Glasgow, includes six cells which have been modified and decorated to improve the environment when children are detained.  Cells have been painted with murals and have chalkboards, jigsaw puzzles, soft toys, books and posters to create a calming experience during a stressful time.  

In addition, London Road has a separate discrete charge area with a lower height charge bar for processing children and young people, and other vulnerable detainees.  

The transformation of London Road custody centre has acted as a pilot for the modernisation of several other children’s custody suites, which includes Police Scotland’s primary custody facility for Glasgow in Cathcart. 

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.  

Success for Craigroyston 2012s

Over the weekend our Craigroyston Community YFC 2012’s took part in the Hillfield Swifts 25th anniversary tournament.

There were 6 games in the group stage. Our boys had a great start, going unbeaten first 4 games.

Some great football played- but in the latter games a lot of tired legs and injuries cost them a couple results but they had done enough to compete in the play-off final.

Game finished 1-1 and went straight to pens, with Craigroyston winning 3-2 on pens 💪

Special mention to Anmol

Wee man received recognition from a lot of other players / coaches and referees resulting in 4 MOTM awards and picking up the Player of the Tournament trophy.

Great day all round – a lot of football and a great start to their pre-season.

Well done to all involved, keep up the hard work 🟡🔵🟡🔵

Darren Monaghan

The Sweetest Berry Spots in Scotland this Summer

It’s no secret that here in Scotland we grow the best, juiciest and most delicious berries, and with summer school holidays in full flow, thoughts are on filling the long summer days.

So, for those looking for something a bit different we’ve picked out some of the top spots in Scotland to pick your own berries near you.

Scotland’s berries are among the best in the world and to recognise their quality and the joy they bring to Scottish consumers, this year Scotland Food & Drink is celebrating them and their growers through its Berries of Scotland campaign. 

Grab a punnet, because these berries are ripe for the picking. Scottish strawberries are at their best between June-August and provide a great day out for families, and anyone looking for that picture perfect Instagram shot this summer.

Craigies Farm, Queensferry

Just 25-minutes from Edinburgh, Craigies Farm has something for everyone. Pick Your Own sessions are available all the way through to October and are wallet friendly from just £2.50 per person. For the days Scottish summer is less kind, little ones can enjoy a ‘Pick and Play’ session which combine indoor and outdoor play.

The family-run farm also has a cafe with fresh, delicious, seasonal produce ready to fuel you and your gang for a fruitful day of picking.

Advanced bookings are required. Open seven days a week, 9-5pm.

Borders Berries, The Borders

Strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants and tayberries -South Scotland’s largest pick your own berry farm is bursting with fruity goodness. With no entry fee, no parking charges and open seven days a week, this stunning spot is a blessing for anyone looking to entertain the kid’s mid-week during the summer holidays.

Still stuck for what to do next? Grab a bite to eat in the farm’s outdoor picnic area or check out the farm’s website for some recipes for jams, jellies, and even some cordials to make at home with your hand-picked haul (fruity cocktails for the adults, anyone?).

Open seven days a week 10 -7pm, £5 per kilo of fruit.

Wester Hardmuir, Highlands

Wester Hardmuir is an absolute must – located just outside Nairn, near Inverness and on the North Coast 500 route, it’s a perfect spot to stop off, stretch your legs, soak in the views and fill a punnet of colourful fruits including strawberries, raspberries, cherries and more.

Bring a blanket and feast on your finds on the farm grounds or grab a home-made berry ice-cream – it would be rude not to!

Open seven days a week 9-5pm. 

Castleton Farm – Grampian

Just off the A90 near Laurencekirk, Castleton Farm is a countryside favourite known for its award-winning produce and homemade treats. In summer, their Cherry Tours invite visitors to explore the orchards at the height of the season, learning how the farm’s famous cherries are grown, harvested and enjoyed. The welcoming café serves up jam-packed traybakes, fresh bakes and hearty dishes made with produce straight from the farm.

Priced at £25pp, open seven days a week 10-4pm.

Charleton Farm, Angus

Just off the A92 outside Montrose in Angus, Charleton Farm is a family-run gem that’s perfect for a summer day out. Their ‘Pick your Own’ experience lets you wander through fields brimming with strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, tayberries available at the peak of each season. For the little ones, kids can burn off extra energy in the free farm playground featuring go‑karts, trampolines, a zip line and sandpits.

Pay-by-weight style, with no booking required.

Open seven days a week 10-4pm.

Carnie Fruit Farm, Cupar

Just a short drive from Edinburgh, nestled in the heart of Fife near Cupar, Cairnie Fruit Farm offers a fantastic all‑in‑one outing for families and friends. Their renowned ‘Pick your Own’ experience lets you stroll through 45 acres of top‑quality fruit (cherries, gooseberries, blackcurrants, brambles and even sunflowers), available daily throughout the summer with no booking required. Just grab a punnet and pick your own by weight.

Open seven days a week 9-4:30pm. 

Amanda Brown, Programme Director at Scotland Food & Drink, said: “Nothing says summer more in Scotland than picking (and of course, eating) your own berries.

“In Scotland we’re blessed with some of the juiciest and tastiest berries anywhere in the world. Picking your own berries is a fantastic way to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays while also building a connection about where their food comes from.

“That, combined with giving the kids delicious and healthy berries to eat makes picking your own berries the perfect family activity.”

For more information and to download our map, please visit: 

https://foodanddrink.scot/our-industry/naturally-scottish/berries-of-scotland/

Family Fringe Day at The Yard

SATURDAY 26th JULY

🫧Family Fringe Day at The Yard🫧

Come and experience the magic of the Fringe at The Yard Edinburgh, this Saturday 26th July. There will be bubbles, magic, juggling, music and much more from our Fringe performers!

No need to book – all Yard members are welcome! Just come along to our regular drop in sessions to get involved.

See you on Saturday!