Tag: First Minister John Swinney

Police Scotland update on attacks across Edinburgh last night (Friday 19 June)

YESTERDAY (Friday, 19 June, 2026), police received multiple calls from members of the public about violent attacks including, threats, robbery and vandalism across Edinburgh, with five people injured.

Five men, two aged 22, and others aged 24, 27, and 39, sustained a range of injuries and three required hospital treatment, however none of the injuries are life threatening.

A 36-year-old white Scottish man was arrested and there is no further threat to the public.

Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland is investigating, supported by other specialist colleagues and local policing officers.

The first report originated from around 8.50pm in the Sighthill area, where two men were injured. They were taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary by ambulance.

Over the following period, reports were received about incidents around retailers across the West and North of the city.

During this period, three other men were attacked in the Telford Road and Leith Walk areas, suffering differing injuries.

Around 9.30pm, local police officers equipped with Taser confronted a suspect and, although Taser was not discharged, the man was detained.

The individual remains in custody and enquiries continue. Local policing patrols will continue across the area and our communities will see a visible policing presence over coming days.

Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton said: “This was a shocking attack and my first thoughts are with those who were injured and most directly affected.

“I want to send a clear message of support to all our communities that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate in a Scotland which is at its best when we stand together.

“Officers responded to multiple reports of a fast-moving sequence of events across Edinburgh before arresting a man and public safety was our priority.

“Extensive work is ongoing to establish all the circumstances. We are being supported by Counter Terrorism Policing and working under the direction of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

“I want to thank our officers who responded with bravery and professionalism, and with a focus on protecting the public.

“I’m hugely grateful for the support and assistance of our communities and would appeal for anyone with any information to share it with police. We have established a major incident police portal.”

The Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers.

We would appeal to anyone with information that could assist with enquiries to upload it using the online form here: 

https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT26X17-PO1

First Minister John Swinney said: “I am deeply concerned by these incidents. There is no place for violence, racism or intolerance in our country.

“I met community groups last week to assure them of the strong support of the Government.”

Prime Minister (at time of writing! – Ed.) Sir Keir Starmer tweeted: “Absolutely appalling. No one should face violence on our streets.

“The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. I will not tolerate this – he will face the full force of the law.

‘My thoughts are with those who are injured and I thank the police and the emergency services for their response.’

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood added: “I am horrified by news of the attack in Edinburgh.

“I am grateful to the police and emergency services for their bravery in apprehending the suspect and for their speedy response in attending to the victims.

“The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred.

“There is no place for hatred and violence against Muslims. I know it is not who we are as a country.”

Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch said: “People should be free to worship, work and walk our streets without fear. The attack in Edinburgh is disturbing.

Violence in our streets is bad enough but reports indicate some of the victims were targeted because they were Muslim. This is abhorrent.

“I am glad police acted swiftly. The victims and their families deserve justice, and the public must have confidence that the law applies equally to everyone.”

Council Leader responds to attacks in Edinburgh

Following a series of incidents across the city yesterday (Friday 19 June), Council Leader Jane Meagher has condemned the attacks and has paid tribute to the response of emergency services.

Councillor Meagher said: “I was shocked and outraged to hear about the appalling incidents that took place across the city on Friday. 

“I, and fellow Councillors, stand in solidarity with those affected by what must have been a deeply traumatic experience. My thoughts are with those injured in the attacks and I wish them a quick recovery.

“I want to pay tribute to Police Scotland, including counter terrorism officers, and other emergency services for their quick action.

“I absolutely echo the words of Police Scotland that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate. I condemn all acts of racist violence and disorder – there is simply no place for it in our city.

“Those in our Muslim communities may understandably be feeling worried and concerned. I want to reassure that we will be working closely with Police colleagues and other partners to do all we can to make sure that communities across the city are safe and supported.

“Edinburgh is a proud diverse and welcoming city – strengthened by those from all backgrounds, cultures, faiths and walks of life that live here. Incidents like this remind us of the need to stand together against racism and prejudice.”

THE EDINBURGH INTERFAITH ASSOCIATION HAS ISSUED A STATEMENT:

MUSLIM COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND CALLS FOR REASSURANCE AND COMMUNITY VIGILANCE

The Muslim Council of Scotland remains deeply concerned by the violent incidents reported across Edinburgh yesterday, including the stabbing of two young Muslim students in Broomhouse and attacks on individuals perceived to be Muslim.

We welcome Police Scotland’s update confirming that a man has been arrested, there is no further threat to the public, and enquiries remain ongoing.

We have sought reassurance from Police Scotland, particularly as mosques and community organisations host family events this weekend and members of the Shia community prepare to mark Muharram in the coming days.

We encourage communities to remain calm, vigilant and mindful of their personal safety, and for organisers to review security arrangements where appropriate.

Our thoughts are with all those injured and affected. We thank Police Scotland and emergency services for their swift response and continued engagement.

MUSLIM ENGAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT STATEMENT

Four people were attacked and hospitalised across West Edinburgh and Leith last night. Several are Muslims. Our prayers are with them – may Allah grant them healing and protection.

Police Scotland must treat this as what the evidence indicates: Islamophobic, far right terror. To investigate these attacks while ignoring a motive shouted aloud at the point of arrest would tell every Muslim in Scotland the law does not see the hatred aimed at them. We expect a hate crime investigation and prosecution, and we stand ready to support the families.

To our community: stay vigilant, look out for one another, report what you see. You are not alone.

Read Full Statement:

https://www.mend.org.uk/targeted-violence-in-edinburgh

STUC STATEMENT:

First Minister meets with anti-racism coalition

John Swinney: When we stand together, we make Scotland stronger

First Minister John Swinney has reaffirmed the Scottish Government’s commitment to tackling racism in all its forms, following the recent disorder in Glasgow and elsewhere in Scotland. 

Meeting representatives of the Anti-Racism Coalition and the Scottish Refugee Council in Edinburgh, the First Minister pledged to work closely with Police Scotland, the third sector and other partners to ensure that people and communities are safe and swift action is taken against those who seek to intimidate and promote hatred. 

Mr Swinney sought to reassure those who are feeling anxious, targeted or unsafe. He said: “I am clear that I am First Minister for everyone in Scotland. For every community, every background, every faith, and every identity.  

“The recent disorder in Glasgow and elsewhere, following the serious incidents in Belfast and Southampton, have caused a lot of distress for many people. Violence is never acceptable, and those responsible must be held accountable to ensure the safety of all our communities. 

“My government stands firmly against hatred in all its forms. That means building trust, tackling prejudice at its roots, and strengthening the connections that bind our communities together.  

“Because when people feel heard and valued, we reduce fear. When we build trust, we weaken division. And when we stand together, we make Scotland stronger.  

“We cannot allow the actions of a small, hateful minority to define us or what we stand for. Nor we can we allow fear to take hold. Instead, we must be guided by the kind of country we know Scotland is.

“One where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and where everyone can live safely and without fear. My government is committed to that vision and to working hand in hand with partners and communities across Scotland to deliver it.

“Through our Community Cohesion funding, New Scots funding, the Equality and Human Rights Fund, and other support for communities and groups, we are already supporting hundreds of cross-community activities.

“These projects are helping to bring people together, educate, and tackle misinformation and disinformation, ultimately building stronger communities where people feel safe.”

Chief Executive of Scottish Refugee Council Sabir Zazai said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe.

“Last week we saw violence in our streets and people being targeted because of the colour of their skin. Irresponsible language, toxic narratives and repeated falsehoods are causing real-life harm to innocent people.

“It is vital that we name racism and call out misinformation when we see it. We need to see the Scottish Government lead the way by investing in cohesion and ensuring people seeking safety and the communities who welcome them have the infrastructure and support they need to thrive.”

Ambitious for Scotland

FM: “I will lead a government that is always on Scotland’s side.”

Prosperity, security and fairness are the principles driving an ambitious vision for Scotland’s future, First Minister John Swinney has said.  

In a statement to Parliament setting out ambitious plans that his government will drive forward, the First Minister outlined measures to expand cost of living support, accelerate sustainable economic growth, strengthen public services and to unlock Scotland’s potential by delivering a fresh start with Independence.  

Mr Swinney said: “Realising the potential of every part of our country, supporting families with rising costs and securing our nations’ future are at the core of my vision for Scotland. I will lead a government that is always on Scotland’s side.   

“Our cost of living support is already the best of any UK nation, but we will go further to protect and expand support for families. I want to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed – regardless of their background – and eradicate the scourge of poverty on our society.  

“Strong public services are at the heart of every successful society, and my government will do all we can to make services more effective and easier to access. That includes strengthening our NHS, reducing waiting times and improving more schools and colleges. 

“Strengthened public services and generous cost of living support must work in tandem with a high-performing economy, one that harnesses our countries resources, potential and talent to boost success and create opportunity.

My government will work to empower our regions to make the most of their economic advantages and streamline regulation to support investment and growth. 

“A truly prosperous, secure Scotland can only reach its full potential outside the confines of the United Kingdom.

The recent, emphatic election result, with the largest ever pro-independence majority within the Scottish Parliament, has given the clear mandate for Scotland to decide its own future, which is why this parliament calls on the UK Government to transfer the power to hold a referendum on independence.

“I hope that giving Scotland the legal right to decide its own future will help build the foundations of a fairer, more prosperous nation as an independent member of the European Union.” 

Celebrating the Scotland men’s national team

First Minister: “Qualifying for the World Cup was a landmark moment”

First Minister John Swinney has met the Scotland men’s national team in Glasgow to celebrate the squad qualifying for their first World Cup finals since 1998.

The Scotland men’s national side, managed by Steve Clarke and captained by Andy Robertson MBE, will face Haiti, Morocco and Brazil in Group C this summer, with matches taking place in Boston and Miami.

The Scottish Government has announced £2 million for a “Summer of Sport” football fund to support clubs across the country to deliver new opportunities for children and young people by using the power of football.

First Minister John Swinney said: “Football is woven into the fabric of life in Scotland. The men’s team qualifying for the World Cup was a landmark moment, and the reaction to the dramatic win against Denmark illustrated how important football is to this country.

“Thousands of fans will make the journey to the USA, but the whole country will be right behind the team. The Scottish Government will build on the excitement surrounding the World Cup and Glasgow’s hosting of the Commonwealth Games to deliver new sporting opportunities for young people across the country.

“Qualifying for the finals is an incredible achievement and I’m very proud of the team – tonight was an opportunity to recognise and celebrate that success.”

World Cup Public Holiday – gov.scot

World Cup bank holiday confirmed – gov.scot

Investing in sport and physical activity – gov.scot

Scotland’s World Cup group fixtures:

  • Scotland v Haiti — Boston, 14 June, 02:00 BST
  • Scotland v Morocco — Boston, 19 June, 23:00 BST
  • Scotland v Brazil — Miami, 24 June, 23:00 BST

First Minister John Swinney receives cake from Islamic Relief UK to support Syria campaign

First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney received a chocolate cake from Islamic Relief UK yesterday as part of the charity’s Cake Campaign, which raises funds for Syria during Ramadan. 

Islamic Relief’s UK Programme Manager, Nadeem Baqir, presented the cake to the First Minister at Bute House in Edinburgh and personally thanked him for the Scottish Government’s generous support for Islamic Relief’s work.

The Scottish Government’s Humanitarian Emergency Fund (HEF) has worked closely with Islamic Relief UK to help deliver lifesaving relief to families across the world.

Last year in Sudan, with support from HEF, Islamic Relief reached more than 7,000 people with cash assistance, food and dignity kits. Thousands more have been supported to rebuild their lives with the support of the Scottish Government in places such as Somalia, Afghanistan, Kenya and Libya.

The Cake Campaign is celebrating 13 years of selling cakes and saving lives. Since 2013, more than £3m has been raised, helping to save and transform the lives of thousands of Syrian people.

Syrian families continue to struggle to rebuild their lives amid widespread destruction and food shortages. The situation remains dire, with millions of people still displaced and enduring extreme hardships. 

The award-winning Cake Campaign sees volunteers across the UK raising funds for people affected by the Syria crisis by delivering cakes during the sacred month of Ramadan.

First Minister John Swinney said: “I am delighted to support Islamic Relief’s Cake Campaign – an inspiring initiative to raise funds to help people in Syria who are still suffering from the impacts of conflict and displacement.  

“Scotland has a long history of supporting responses to global humanitarian crises, and we will continue to do so. Through our Humanitarian Emergency Fund, the Scottish Government supports humanitarian organisations including Islamic Relief to carry out vital work to provide support including food, medical care and shelter to people affected by conflict, climate change and natural disasters.” 

Nadeem Baqir, UK programme manager for Islamic Relief UK said: “We are delighted to have delivered a cake to the First Minister as part of the Cake Campaign. This initiative is crucial in providing vital aid, offering hope, and standing in solidarity with the Syrian people during their time of need. 
 
“The Scottish government has always been supportive of international development. We are extremely grateful to the First Minister, John Swinney, and the Scottish Government for their generous funding for Islamic Relief’s work in places such as Sudan, where more than 7,000 people received cash assistance, food and dignity kits last year.”


“This generosity also helped more than 7,000 people in Kenya who were affected by devastating floods in 2024, as well as transforming many other lives in humanitarian emergencies in Libya and Somalia.


“We hope the First Minister enjoys his cake!”

First new GP walk-in service opens

Major milestone in delivering faster access to care

Patients will have access to GP-led care on the same day without an appointment as the First Minister opens the first of a new network of walk-in services. The new services will make it easier for people to get urgent care for medical issues while easing pressure on GP practices and hospitals.

The Scottish Government is investing £36 million into a pilot programme which will see a further 14 services established across Scotland.

First Minister John Swinney has opened the country’s first GP walk-in clinic at Wester Hailes Healthy Living Centre, marking a significant step forward in the government’s efforts to strengthen primary care.

Speaking ahead of his visit, Mr Swinney said: “I know how important access to urgent medical care is for people, and how important it is for people to get the right care, in the right place at the right time.

“Our network of walk-in GP-led services will ensure people get the care they need at a time that works for them – and opening this first clinic is a major milestone as we continue to deliver trusted leadership for our health service.

“Open seven days per week from 12pm-8pm, these walk-in clinics will deliver over one million additional GP and nurse appointments, making it easier than ever for people to access urgent care when they need it most.

“With GP numbers up, long waits down, record numbers of hip and knee operations and 15 new walk-in GP clinics opening in Scotland, it is clear we are making progress in our NHS – and I am determined that we will continue to drive forward improvements.”

Tracey McKigen, Director of Primary Care for NHS Lothian, said: “We are proud to be launching this pilot service in collaboration with the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership.

“It will add to the range of health services in Wester Hailes and make it easier for local patients registered with eight eligible GP practices in southwest Edinburgh to get same day care for new, urgent conditions.”

The walk-in clinic at Wester Hailes Healthy Living Centre is open every day from 12 noon to 8pm with no appointment needed.

During the pilot phase, the service is available to patients registered with a group of local GP practices in southwest Edinburgh. 

Depending on clinical need, patients may see a GP or Advanced Nurse Practitioner.

Walk in Clinic – General Practitioners (GPs).

First Minister visits Cyrenians In Reach Service at NHS Lothian

NHS Lothian was pleased to welcome the First Minister to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh recently to visit the Cyrenians In Reach Service at NHS Lothian.

The service supports patients in hospital experiencing homelessness to complete treatment and secure suitable housing. The visit came as the Scottish Government announced an additional £40,000 for the In Reach service across NHS Lothian’s three hospitals.

The First Minister, John Swinney, said: “The Cyrenians In Reach Hospital service is absolutely vital for Edinburgh, supporting the most vulnerable patients at risk of homelessness and ensuring they have a home to go to once their treatment is completed.

“Meeting staff and former patients today has given me a key insight into how the service works and the vital role it plays. The further £40,000 from the Scottish Government will ensure it can be expanded to accommodate even more patients, most of whom are also experiencing poor mental health.

“Improving public services is a key priority for the Scottish Government and services such as this play an essential role in supporting our hospitals, local authorities and third partners to reduce rates of homelessness.”

Caroline Hiscox, Chief Executive for NHS Lothian, said: “Working with the Cyrenians Hospital In-Reach service helps us ensure patients experiencing homelessness can leave hospital safely, recover well and reduce preventable readmissions.

“We look forward to supporting this important partnership to expand.”

Chief Executive of Cyrenians Ewan Aitken said: “Homelessness majorly affects people’s health. Studies show that those who have experienced homelessness are three times as likely to be admitted to hospital, and for three times as long.

“Cyrenians Hospital InReach team have been tackling this huge public health issue for nearly five years now – reducing readmissions by three thirds.

“Thanks to this additional funding, we’ll be able to help even more people get the direct support they need, when they need it, find suitable accommodation, and stop the revolving door of hospital and homelessness.”

First Minister meets families who’ve benefited from Hospital at Home care 

First Minister John Swinney visited the Royal Hospital for Children (RHC) in Glasgow yesterday to meet families who have benefitted from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s expanding Hospital at Home and virtual hospital services.

Mr Swinney was welcomed by NHSGGC Chair Dr Lesley Thomson KC and Chief Executive Professor Jann Gardner and spoke to staff leading new services designed to deliver hospital-level care for children in the comfort of their own homes. 

He was also given a tour of key areas of the hospital including the Teddy Hospital and the Sensory Room, which support children and families during their visits to the RHC.

The First Minister had the opportunity to hear from parents whose children have received care through Hospital at Home, as well as those who have received intravenous antibiotic treatments on an outpatient basis. 

NHSGGC recently launched two new services within its wider virtual hospital.
Paediatric Hospital at Home offers care and monitoring for children with a wide range of conditions that do not require admission to a physical hospital, while Neonatal Hospital at Home enables babies with neonatal jaundice to receive treatment at home rather than remaining in hospital for several days.

These services, alongside the existing Paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) service for children with complex infections, significantly expand the opportunities for young patients to be safely treated at home rather than in hospital wards.

First Minister John Swinney said: “We are taking bold action to reduce pressure on our NHS, increase capacity and shift the balance of care into communities.

“Through our £220 million Operational Improvement Plan, we’re investing to reduce waiting times, improving hospital flow, and provide care for patients in the comfort and safety of their own homes.

“It’s clear to see the impact of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s new Paediatric and Neonatal services, helping children to stay at home while receiving hospital level care.

“Thanks to these innovative services, this festive season they can be treated in familiar surroundings rather than be separated from family, friends and pets and not have to travel to a hospital where it isn’t required.”

Paediatric Hospital at Home is tailored to each child and can include a combination of nurse home visits, wearable technology such as oxygen and heart‑rate monitors, virtual consultations, phone check‑ins, and early supported discharge.

This approach allows children to remain with their families in a familiar environment while still receiving high-quality clinical care, often reducing the length of time they spend in hospital.

The new Neonatal Hospital at Home service is already improving experiences for families. 

Neonatal jaundice affects around six in ten newborns and typically requires several days of phototherapy treatment in hospital.

Through the new service, babies can now receive phototherapy at home, with neonatal nurses visiting daily to check bilirubin levels, assess progress, and determine whether treatment should continue – all while keeping families together.

These services form a key part of NHSGGC’s Transforming Together programme, which aims to provide more care closer to home and reduce unnecessary time spent in hospital.

The virtual hospital model brings advanced monitoring, treatment, and multidisciplinary support directly to families, helping ensure care is flexible, responsive, and centred around the needs of the patient. 

One of the patients Mr Swinney met was 15-week-old Albie Thorburn, who was cared for through the Paediatric Hospital at Home service after having issues with feeding and weight gain. 

Albie’s mum Kirsty, 32, explained that her son was initially admitted to the RHC for tests to rule out anything underlying. 

She and husband Alan, 38, were then shown how to feed Albie using a nasal gastric tube which was inserted during his hospital stay, and they were able to take him home sooner.

Kirsty, from the east end of Glasgow, said the family had daily check-ins with Albie’s clinicians via phone, and two attendances in person for Albie to be weighed. These phone calls allowed his parents to ask for further advice, and they were given a dedicated out of hours number for any concerns. 

She said: “It was great to be under the Hospital at Home as we were getting daily input from the clinicians without Albie having to be in a physical hospital. 

“Albie wasn’t unwell, so there was no need for him to be kept in hospital other than having his condition monitored. 

“Having him at home meant I was more relaxed and was able to feed him and produce milk better.

“It meant my partner could be there overnight too and assist with the night feeds. 

“It just helped us be together at home with all of our comforts. He has been thriving since he got home.”

The First Minister also met three-week-old baby Krish Butti who had jaundice when he was born but was able to go home to have phototherapy treatment. 

Krish’s mum, Bijini Balan, who is 35 and lives close to Glasgow city centre, said: “We were much more comfortable at home, and it meant we were more settled.

It was very beneficial not to have to spend days or weeks in hospital because he could have his treatment at home and the jaundice has completely disappeared now.”

Meanwhile, Mr Swinney had the opportunity to meet families of young patients who received intravenous antibiotic treatment on an outpatient basis, also known as OPAT, rather than having to stay overnight in hospital. 

Caleb McLellan, 7, was treated using OPAT for a heart infection called endocarditis.

His mum, Joanne Campbell, from Stepps, said: “Having the OPAT treatment had a significant impact on Caleb and really helped him cope with the situation.

“He was able to go to school for a couple of hours in the afternoon each day which meant he was able to see his friends and regain a sense of normality instead of being isolated and confined to hospital.

“Being at home also allowed him to spend time with his little sister, which was hugely important for both of them.”

Dr Neil Patel, Clinical Innovation Director and Consultant Neonatologist at the Royal Hospital for Children, said: “Our Hospital at Home programme is giving babies and children the opportunity to receive the same high‑quality care they’d receive in hospital, but in the place that’s most natural and comfortable for them – their own home.

“We’re seeing the benefits every day, from reduced hospital stays to better experiences for families at what can be a very stressful time.

“These services are a core part of NHSGGC’s virtual hospital and our wider Transforming Together agenda.

“By using technology, specialist nursing support, and innovative care pathways, we are safely shifting more hospital‑level care to the home environment, improving outcomes while helping families stay together.”

Solidarity with Jewish Communities

FM: “Scottish Government stands firmly against all forms of antisemitism”

First Minister John Swinney has extended his condolences and spoken of the Scottish Government’s solidarity with Jewish communities in Scotland and around the world following the terror attack in Sydney on the first night of Chanukah.

Mr Swinney expressed his horror at the “unspeakable act of hatred and violence” and condemned all forms of antisemitism. The First Minister confirmed the Scottish Government is liaising closely with Police Scotland and relevant partners to ensure safety for Jewish communities and their places of worship.

The First Minister said: “I was deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the horrific terror attack that happened at Bondi Beach, on the first night of Chanukah. What should have been a celebration of light and hope was cruelly marred by an unspeakable act of hatred and violence.

“I know that the Jewish community here in Scotland will be facing unimaginable grief and anxiety in the wake of this senseless attack. In this moment of darkness and pain, the Scottish Government stands firmly against any and all forms of antisemitism – an evil which has absolutely no place in our society and which we must confront.

“I also want to assure our Jewish communities that the Scottish Government is in very close contact with Police Scotland, and other relevant partners, to put in place the appropriate measures to ensure safety around places of worship at this time.

“I am dedicated to ensuring that our Jewish communities here in Scotland feel safe and supported and able to live free from fear.

“The world needs acts of goodness, kindness, and light at this time more than ever. We condemn the appalling acts of violence perpetrated in Australia over the weekend, and we stand in solidarity with our Jewish communities as they come together to celebrate Chanukah.”

Victims of the infected blood disaster to feature in new Scottish Parliament exhibit

The devastating impact on people in Scotland affected by the infected blood disaster will be featured in a new exhibit which has gone on display at the Scottish Parliament.

Jryna Batters, Bruce Norval and Bill Wright OBE describe the personal and lifelong impact infected blood has had on them and their families. The exhibit was designed in consultation with the infected blood community including representatives from Haemophilia Scotland and the Scottish Infected Blood Forum.

It is thought around 3,000 people were infected in Scotland after being given contaminated blood products in the 1970s, 80s and early 90s.

The digital exhibit explores the decades-long timeline of how the infected blood disaster unfolded and how individuals worked to keep the issue in public and political awareness. It also looks at how the creation of the Scottish Parliament provided a platform to those who were campaigning for their voices to be heard.

Jryna lives in Skye and tells of her shock at being told she had Hepatitis C after a routine blood donation. Unbeknown to them, Jryna’s husband Donald had contracted the infection after a blood transfusion of infected blood products.

She tells of the shame and stigma she felt along with the lack of support. Sadly, Jryna’s husband Donald died from liver cancer, which had a profound effect on her and her children.

Bruce from the Black Isle also tells of the enormity of the challenge in “fighting the whole system”. He feels he had to do a lot of work himself to find and challenge the evidence and narrative. Bruce and many of those infected were children at the time and he explains the lack of patient awareness and consent. He tells of the lifelong and devastating impact chronic illness has had on him and his family.

Bill, who lives in Dunkeld, explains how he was infected with Hepatitis C in 1986. Initially told that his infection was “unavoidable”, he is now living with liver cancer. He has campaigned tirelessly for justice, driven by his desire to see the truth uncovered for those who have died or those who lost family members as a result of being infected.

The Presiding Officer joined Jryna, and Bill to see the new exhibit going on display, alongside regional and constituency MSPs who represent them and representatives of the infected blood community who advised on the exhibit.

Presiding Officer, the Rt. Hon. Alison Johnstone MSP said: “This new exhibit is a permanent reminder of the devastating impact the contaminated blood disaster has had on people in Scotland and their families. But not only that, it highlights their enduring campaign over several decades to get to the heart of the truth and seek justice.

“I am pleased that the Scottish Parliament is using its national platform to remind people of what happened to Jryna, Bruce and Bill and the thousands of others who have lost precious family members or are continuing to live with the impact of infected blood today.

“Their stories must never be forgotten. And we must continue to let them be heard to make sure nothing like this can ever happen again.”

Jryna Batters said: “The impact of the infected blood disaster for me and my sons is significant loss. Loss of time with my husband Donald, loss of love, family time, memories and adventures.

“For me the exhibit represents some recognition for those that have sadly died and whose lives have been filled with pain because of infected blood.”

Bruce Norval said: “I would really like people to learn from our experiences and for the Parliament at Holyrood to be committed to always continuing to listen to people who are in a minority.

“The Public Petitions Committee should always remain accessible to the smallest possible groups of people, and open to hearing their experiences and evidence.

“It’s particularly important that Parliament listens to people and evidence even when it might be uncomfortable, or at odds with wider narratives from people in positions of power, including the civil service.

“In Scotland right now, there is still a lack of joined up care across all victim groups, and I would like to see the Department of Health write to all GPs to ensure that the 500 or so infected people left in Scotland, receive the treatment and support they need at this time in life, which is usually people in their 50s and 60s.

“I would like to see care that is based on a clear treatment plan for infected people, including people infected as very young children, and acknowledgement that cancer isn’t the only risk to infected people, so that we all receive the best possible care and treatment now, and when it comes to end of life care.”

Bill Wright OBE said: “The permanent video display in the entrance to the Parliament reinforces the decades of campaigning which continues on the detail of the compensation scheme. I thank the Parliament for taking this initiative.

“With Scottish Government support we continue to work towards a permanent tribute/memorial to the grievous loss and suffering faced by those infected and affected by the infected blood disaster.

“My hope is that this will come to fruition soon”.