Tag: Foysol Choudhury MSP

Fashion Disparity in South Asia and it’s Reflection in Scotland’s Retail Landscape 

Fast fashion, the process of rapidly producing and distributing inexpensive, trendy clothing, often at  the expense of quality and sustainability, has revolutionised the global clothing industry, offering  affordable and trendy apparel to consumers. However, this convenience comes at a significant cost,  particularly for garment workers in South Asia, including Bangladesh, who face exploitative working  conditions and stark pay disparities (writes FOYSOL CHOUDHURY MSP).  

In Scotland, the dominance of retail giants like Zara, H&M, and Primark highlight the disconnect  between consumer habits and the realities of fast fashion production. The Journal for Global  Business and Community has found that in the UK, this enormous retail industry is valued at  approximately £10.9 billion as of 2024. Despite growing concerns about sustainability, the industry  continues to thrive due to its accessibility and trend-driven nature. 

Bangladesh, the world’s second-largest exporter of apparel, employs over four million workers in its  garment industry, the majority of whom are women. Despite their critical role in the global supply  chain, these workers often earn meagre wages, with some taking home as little as 50USD a month. 

Protests for fair pay have intensified, as workers demand wages that reflect the rising cost of living  and inflation. Unsafe working conditions, long hours, and limited labour protections further  exacerbate their struggles. 

The disparity between the lives of garment workers in South Asia and the thriving retail industry in  Scotland underscores the need for greater awareness and accountability. Consumers in Scotland  have the power to drive change by supporting sustainable and ethical fashion practices. Initiatives  like Zero Waste Scotland’s promotion of second-hand shopping and slow fashion demonstrate a  growing shift towards more responsible consumption. 

As the chair of the Cross-Party Group on Bangladesh, I emphasise the importance of addressing  these issues on a global scale. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between policymakers,  retailers, and consumers, Scotland can play a pivotal role in advocating for fair wages and improved  working conditions for garment workers in South Asia. Highlighting these disparities not only raises  awareness but also encourages meaningful action to create a more equitable fashion industry. 

To combat these issues and make real change, Scotland can further promote ethical supply chains, ensuring transparency and fair practices in procurement processes. By doing so, the country can  support initiatives that guarantee fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmentally conscious  production methods.

This approach aligns with Scotland’s commitment to being a good global  citizen, prioritising social justice and environmental sustainability, with commitments to achieving  net-zero emissions by 2045. Scotland is also a founding member of the Wellbeing Economy  Government’s Group (WEGo), aiming to restructure the economy towards a net-zero future and a  nature-positive target.

The Scottish Government has interim targets of 56% reduction of carbon  emissions by 2020, 75% by 2030, and 90% by 2040, relative to a 1990/1995 baseline making it a  leader in advocating for global ethical standards. 

Encouraging circular fashion presents another vital step toward sustainability. Scotland can champion  initiatives such as clothing repair workshops, second-hand markets, and robust recycling programs,  e.g. the Scotland Children’s Hospital Charity, alongside Nathans Wastesavers, who have several very  successful clothing and textile recycling banks across Edinburgh, Lothians and Borders.

These efforts  help reduce textile waste, extend the life cycle of garments, and foster a culture of reusing and  repurposing materials. By embracing circularity, Scotland can significantly contribute to reducing the  environmental footprint of the fashion industry.

Additionally, Scotland has the potential to collaborate closely with South Asian countries on these  issues, fostering partnerships that aim to improve working conditions and adopt innovative,  sustainable technologies.

Such collaborations would not only benefit workers in South Asia but also  serve as a blueprint for a global movement toward ethical fashion practices. By leveraging these  partnerships, Scotland can make meaningful progress in creating a more equitable and sustainable  fashion industry worldwide.

Holyrood to debate Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults bill today

This week parliament will debate and vote on the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults bill (writes Labour Lothians list MSP FOYSOL CHOUDHURY). 

In the run up to vote, I have endeavoured to engage with organisations both for and against the bill and hear the views of constituents. 

After having considered my position, I will be voting against the bill.

The bill uses a broad definition of terminal illness which would include people with disabilities and those with years to live.

This has been raised by constituents and disabled people’s groups as sending the message that their lives are less valuable and opening them to potential coercion. These concerns are compounded by experiences in other jurisdictions, which have seen the law widened following legal challenges.

I am also concerned that assisted dying would place undue pressure on terminally ill people to end their lives as to not be a burden on their families, and do not believe proposed safeguards protect against this. 

I understand some may be disappointed, this has been a difficult decision to make. 

In any case, our priority should be ensuring every person can access palliative care, and those with terminal illnesses are well supported. 

SUPPORTERS of law change on assisted dying from across Scotland have gathered outside the Scottish Parliament this morning in a powerful demonstration to show their support for Liam McArthur MSP’s Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill as it progresses through Parliament.

Organised by Dignity in Dying Scotland, the event will bring together individuals living with terminal illnesses, bereaved families, and supporters of end-of-life choice. The demonstration will feature placards, and speeches, to demonstrate the groundswell of support for law change in Scotland and symbolise the lives affected by the current lack of assisted dying legislation.

The demonstration takes place on the same day MSPs will be voting at Stage 1 on the Bill, which would give mentally competent, terminally ill adults the right to request assistance to end their lives, introducing oversight and regulation where none currently exists. Polling consistently shows overwhelming public support in Scotland for a change in the law, with 78% backing the proposal.

Ally Thomson, Director of Dignity in Dying Scotland, said: “It is the voices of dying Scots and those who have watched a loved one endure a harrowing death that are at the centre of this bill. Their message to MSPs is clear – it’s time to deliver compassion, safety and choice for people facing a bad death.

“This demonstration is about showing the human cost of the suffering caused by the current blanket ban on assisted dying —a cost that is simply too much for dying people, and their family and friends to bear.

“This Stage 1 vote could be a milestone moment  – putting comfort, choice and safety in place of pain and fear. We urge Parliament to listen to the voices of dying people and take this historic step.”

The demonstration will reassemble from 6pm to react to the outcome of the Stage 1 vote, expected around 7pm,

Foysol Choudhury MSP calls for pause on mental health service cuts to allow for Strategic Review

Lothians list MSP, Foysol Choudhury, has called for an immediate pause on proposed cuts to vital community mental health services in the city, urging the Edinburgh Integrated Joint Board (EIJB) to undertake a thorough strategic assessment of the city’s mental health provision.

The Labour MSP argues that the current decision-making process lacks the necessary time and consideration to evaluate the long-term impact on those who rely on these essential services.

The call comes in response to proposed cuts, including the potential cancellation of a £188,000 contract with Change Mental Health for the Thriving Spaces and Places initiative leaving 650 people with mental health challenges and mental health illness without support, Foysol Choudhury MSP, emphasised the need for proper planning, engagement with stakeholders, and an evidence-based approach to reforming mental health services in Edinburgh.

Nick Ward, CEO of Change Mental Health, a charity which runs services under the Thriving Spaces and Places initiative, has strongly criticised the approach taken by the EIJB, highlighting the flaws in both the economic and clinical rationale behind the cuts.

He stated: “On economic, clinical, and process grounds, the Edinburgh Integrated Joint Board has approached this all wrong. It’s outrageous and short-sighted that vulnerable people will not be getting the support they need.

“Thrive and the wider Edinburgh third sector recognise the tight budgetary environment and the case for reform. However, this is not about scrapping services entirely. It’s about working together to redesign services that meet the needs of our communities.

“Removing the services will not remove the need and will just shift it to more expensive NHS services. We estimate that the Stafford Centre alone saves the NHS £4 million a year at a cost of only £188,000.

“The decision to remove funding risks undermining the stability and quality of services that so many depend on. It would be devastating to the population of Edinburgh.

“This approach, if carried forward, would leave Edinburgh as an outlier in Western Europe, where other cities continue to support community-based mental health services as an essential part of their healthcare systems.

“We call upon the EIJB and in particular the councillors on it, to reject this self-defeating proposal and instead work collaboratively with the third sector to redesign services to save money and deliver support for our city’s most vulnerable.”

Foysol Choudhury MSP pointed out that the proposal threatens to destabilise key services such as drop-in support, carer services, and veteran support, which have been fundamental in improving the mental health and wellbeing of hundreds of Edinburgh residents.

The lack of consultation and the rushed timeline undermine the collaborative approach that was promised after earlier breakdowns in communication with third-sector partners.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “This is not just an issue for those directly impacted by these cuts. It is a question of public health, social cohesion, and responsible governance.

“Do Councillors, MSPs, and MPs across Edinburgh fully understand the magnitude of the decisions being made in their names? The risks associated with these cuts are profound, and it is crucial that we pause to reassess the long-term impact on mental health provision and the health system as a whole.”

Foysol Choudhury MSP concluded by calling for urgent engagement with the third sector, health professionals, and local communities to ensure a sustainable and effective redesign of services that meets the needs of the city’s population.

Mr. Choudhury also suggested a full review of the process before any further cuts are made.

Foysol Choudhury Congratulates Anisa Khan, the First Finalist of Bengali-descent on BBC’s The Apprentice

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for Lothian, congratulates Anisa Khan, a 26-year-old entrepreneur who has made history as the first finalist of Bengali descent to appear on BBC’s The Apprentice.

She is the owner of Bombay Pizza, an Indian-Italian fusion pizza company in London. She identifies as a British-Bangladeshi woman and her heritage plays a significant role in her business and her identity.

She is a national Kabaddi player from London and has founded Bombay Pizza with the plan to redefine success with the incorporation of South Asian influence.

As the first finalist of Bengali descent, she blends her cultural pride into her work, representing her passion for food, family, and culture.

The Apprentice is one of the UK’s most influential reality TV shows, showcasing ambitious entrepreneurs competing for a business investment from Lord Alan Sugar.

Over nearly two decades, it has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring viewers with high-stakes challenges, strategic decision-making, and entrepreneurial ambition.

The 2025 finale, which aired on Thursday, April 17, drew around 3.5 million viewers, with Dean Franklin, founder of ADL Air Conditioning, named Lord Sugar’s newest business partner.

Since 2020, Anisa has been operating Bombay Pizza from a dark kitchen in Wallington, Sutton, crafting hand-crafted pizzas inspired by South Asian flavours.

Due to high demand, Bombay Pizza currently offers in-person orders only, but Anisa recently launched Bombay Pizza by Post, a nationwide delivery service.

Last month’s postal orders sold out quickly, but customers can sign up for the mailing list to be the first to know when they’re back in stock. In celebration of her Apprentice journey, Anisa has introduced a special edition of Apprentice-inspired pizzas on Bombay Pizza by Post, each named after one of the final five contestants.

‘The Anisa’ features Bengali chicken naga, peppers, red onions, and mozzarella on a spicy masala base—bringing the heat in true Apprentice fashion.

Anisa approached The Apprentice with confidence and ambition, believing in the immense potential of Bombay Pizza’s unique concept and its overwhelmingly positive reception.

Reflecting on her time on the show, she shared, “I didn’t realise how resilient I was as a person. I’m someone that if I have a goal, I’ll make it happen.”

Over 12 gruelling weeks, she showcased determination and drive, making her one of the standout contenders of the season.

In the series finale, Anisa finished as runner-up. She remains undeterred, leveraging her experience and connections to propel Bombay Pizza to even greater heights. This is truly a world-class achievement and has given a sense of pride to the Bangladeshi and South Asian community in the UK. For those eager to taste the flavours that took her so far, a visit to Bombay Pizza in Wallington, London is a must.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “Anisa has brought great pride to the Bangladeshi community in Scotland and throughout the UK.

“Her contemporary ideas and fusion of South Asian flavour and Italian cuisine have been a wonderful addition to the restaurant sector in London.

“I am proud to call her father, Mr. Yawar Khan, a dear friend and I look forward to witnessing the success of her business continue.”

Building a Healthier Future: The growing demand for Occupational Therapists in Edinburgh

As the mental health crisis rages throughout our nation, the Scottish Government continues  to fail to address the crucial role of occupational therapy for our forgotten citizens (writes FOYSOL CHOUDHURY MSP). 

As Scotland contends with an escalating mental health crisis, it is heartbreaking to see the  Scottish Government neglect the crucial role of occupational therapy in supporting our  citizens. This oversight leaves countless individuals without the essential care they need to  overcome their challenges and lead fulfilling lives. We must urgently address this gap and  ensure that occupational therapy receives the recognition and support it deserves. 

The shortage of occupational therapists in Edinburgh and across Scotland is truly distasteful.  These professionals play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome physical, emotional,  and social challenges, allowing them to achieve their full potential. The growing demand for  occupational therapy services highlights the need for increased support and investment in this  vital field. 

Occupational therapists are essential in enhancing the quality of life for those with disabilities,  mental health issues, and other barriers to daily living. Their work improves individual well being and strengthens our community by encouraging independence and resilience. 

In Edinburgh, the need for occupational therapists is particularly severe. According to the  Scottish Health Survey, more than 1 in 3 people in Scotland are affected by mental health  problems each year. Furthermore, in a report conducted by the Scottish Action for Mental  Health, over 50,000 people were admitted to hospital with mental health conditions in  2023/24. 

These statistics underscore the urgent need for more occupational therapists to provide timely  and effective care. The impact of occupational therapy extends beyond individual patients. By  helping people regain their independence and participate in daily activities, occupational  therapists contribute to the overall health and well-being of our community. 

Occupational therapists operate in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and  community centres, providing support to individuals of all ages. In Edinburgh, iThrive’s mental  health and wellbeing strategy emphasises the importance of supporting and promoting  mental health in addition to addressing mental illness. 

Occupational therapists are at the forefront of these efforts, helping to create a more inclusive  and supportive environment for all. Despite the critical role of occupational therapists, there  is a significant shortage of these professionals in Scotland. The Mental Health Inpatient Census  2022 revealed that there were 2,959 mental health, addiction, and learning disability  inpatients in NHS Scotland at the time of the census.

This represents an 11% decrease compared with the 2019 Census and a 24% decrease since  the first Census in 2014. The number of available beds for mental health, addiction, and  learning disability patients has also been consistently decreasing, with a 12% decrease in  available beds from the 2019 Census. These trends highlight the growing need for  occupational therapists to provide essential care and support to those in need. 

In a recent conversation with the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, I heard about the  ongoing shortage of occupational therapists having far-reaching consequences. It leads to  longer waiting times for patients, reduced access to services, and increased pressure on  existing healthcare providers.

This delay in care can have a detrimental impact on the mental  health and well-being of young people, making it even more critical to address the shortage  of occupational therapists. We also discussed the need to expand the therapy workforce and  improve early intervention, supporting people to be economically active. 

To address this urgent need, we must prioritise the recruitment and retention of occupational  therapists in Edinburgh and across Scotland.

This requires increased investment in education  and training programmes to ensure that we have enough qualified professionals to meet the  growing demand. Additionally, we must provide competitive salaries and benefits to attract  and retain skilled occupational therapists. By investing in these professionals, we are investing  in the future of our community, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 

Furthermore, we must raise awareness about the importance of occupational therapy and the  critical role these professionals play in our healthcare system. Public campaigns and early  educational initiatives can help to highlight the value of occupational therapy and encourage  more individuals to pursue careers in this field. Through promoting the benefits of  occupational therapy, we can help to build a stronger and more resilient healthcare system. 

The need for occupational therapists in Edinburgh and Scotland is urgent and cannot be  ignored. Here, we must value the life-changing power of occupational therapy. Let us work  together to address this critical issue and build a healthier and more inclusive future for all.

Foysol Choudhury MSP celebrates Scotland’s first Transplant Football Team

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for Lothian, calls for the celebration of Scotland’s first ever transplant football team, encouraging progression post-procedure. Scotland has made history with the formation of its first-ever transplant football team, a groundbreaking initiative that brings together individuals who have undergone organ, stem-cell, or bone marrow transplants.

The mixed-gender team, with an average age of 40, welcomes players from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where transplant recipients can connect with others who have faced similar challenges. The club’s mission extends beyond fitness—it’s about reclaiming life after a transplant, proving that recovery is not just about survival but about thriving. 

The health benefits of the club go far beyond physical activity. Jelina Berlow-Rahman, the only female player on the team, embodies the spirit of resilience. Diagnosed with kidney failure at 26, she endured four years on dialysis before receiving her transplant.

Remarkably, she built her own law firm while undergoing treatment, demonstrating the power of perseverance. Jelina shares the team’s message: “Anyone can play, for however long they want. Everyone is welcome. It’s fine to play continuously and guide one another.” 

For many transplant recipients, the journey doesn’t end with surgery—it’s a lifelong process of adapting to new challenges. The team provides a support system, helping players overcome emotional and physical hurdles that often accompany major medical procedures. Many patients struggle with mental health difficulties post-transplant, feeling isolated or uncertain about their future.

Football offers them an outlet for expression, a way to regain confidence, and a chance to honour their donors. The Scottish Transplant Football Team has already made waves in the international transplant sports community.

Despite being only six months old, the team competed in the 2025 European Transplant Football Championships, facing off against seasoned teams from across the continent. Scotland was the only mixed-gender team in the tournament, showcasing its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. 

The squad, founded by Duncan MacAulay, an Inverness-based fire service worker who underwent a heart transplant, has rapidly grown into a 21-player team.

Their participation in the Euros was a testament to their determination, securing an 8-1 victory over Ireland before battling against top-tier opponents like Spain and Italy. Jelina Berlow-Rahman also made history as the first woman to play for Scotland’s transplant football team at an international level. Her presence on the pitch was a powerful statement about breaking barriers and proving that transplant recipients can achieve incredible feats. 

The team’s journey is just beginning. With plans to expand recruitment, raise awareness about organ donation, and compete in the 2026 Transplant Football World Cup, Scotland’s transplant footballers are determined to inspire others and change perceptions about life after transplantation. 

Their message is clear: transplant recipients are not defined by their medical history—they are athletes, professionals, and individuals with limitless potential.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “The Scottish Transplant Football Team is more than just a sports club—it’s a lifeline for players seeking physical and mental well-being, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose.

“Through football, they are proving that life after a transplant is not just about survival—it’s about thriving, competing, and celebrating second chances.”

MSP pushes for more sustainable practices amidst Scottish Government Fair-Trade debate

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for the Lothian Region, spoke in yesterday’s Scottish Government Debate on Scotland—A Fair Trade Nation, raising urgent concerns over sustainability and ethical supply chains.

Foysol Choudhury, MSP, spoke to Scotland’s continued recognition as a Fair Trade Nation, highlighting its commitment to fairness, trade justice, and global cooperation.

His speech recognised local businesses and organisations, including One World Shop, Hadeel, and the University of Edinburgh, who are embracing fair-trade principles, pointing to Scotland’s role in supporting marginalised communities worldwide while fostering sustainable and ethical practices locally.

However, Foysol Choudhury MSP emphasised the importance of popular retailers, like Primark, in moving to adopt fair-trade practices to ensure fair wages are met and to ensure ethical practices in merchandise production.

By encouraging businesses to adopt fair-trade practices, Scotland can set a powerful example of how ethical commerce can combat exploitation in merchandise production, both at home and abroad.

Through initiatives like Edinburgh’s Fair Trade City status and support for international producers, Scotland demonstrates the impact of prioritising sustainable supply chains and fair wages on a global scale.

Following the debate, Choudhury emphasised that while parts of the world may be casting their gaze inward when it comes to trade, Scotland can continue looking outward, ensuring sustainability and ethical practices remain at the forefront of Scottish development in the global realm.

Speaking in the chamber, Foysol Choudhury MSP stated: “Producers in the Global South can be considered to have done the least to cause the climate crisis but face the greatest losses as climates change.

“For a multinational corporation, a changing climate may mean a loss on the balance sheet, but for a small-scale farmer, it means losing their livelihood. With Fair Trade, producers are better able to adapt and protect their livelihoods and communities.”

“We must keep working to maximise the benefits of being a Fair-Trade nation.”

“We should also be looking to further encourage businesses across all sectors to adopt fair trade practices and supporting them in building sustainable, ethical supply chains.”

MSP Calls for Greater Support and Funding Clarity for Local Community Organisations

Foysol Choudhury MSP Stands with Unsung Community Heroes in Edinburgh

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for Lothian, calls for greater support and funding for local community organisations in Edinburgh, such as the Polish Family Support Centre, following a series of ruthless budget cuts from the Scottish Government.

Foysol Choudhury MSP has issued a heartfelt and urgent appeal for greater support and funding for local community organisations in Edinburgh. During a recent visit to the Polish Family Support Centre, Mr. Choudhury emphasised the critical role these organisations play in encouraging community cohesion and providing essential services to underrepresented groups.

This comes after the Scottish voluntary sector was struck with further budget cuts. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) have revealed that real-term cuts to public funding have surmounted to over £177m since 2021, where more than 76% of third-sector organisations report financial challenges because of inflation and rising costs.

These cuts are not just numbers; they represent the struggles of countless individuals and families who rely on these vital services.

This situation may only worsen with changes to employers’ National Insurance contributions, imposed by Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves, which could leave the sector with another £75m to find each year.

In his recent visit to the Polish Family Support Centre, Mr. Choudhury witnessed significant challenges due to limited funding and resources.

As a one-stop-shop for all, the Polish Family Support Centre provides a wide range of services, including professional counselling, workshops, and support groups, all aimed at helping Polish families and individuals navigate the complex nature of life in Scotland.

However, the Centre’s ability to expand its reach and impact has been drastically obstructed by financial constraints. According to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator, the Polish Family Support Centre has lost hundreds of thousands in funding, and with over 4,040 yearly sessions in 2023 – an increase of 2,000 from 2018 – it is clear that the Polish Family Support Centre needs further backing.

Other community organisations such as the Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, Milan SWO, Edinburgh Diwali, the Bihari Community of Scotland, and other third sector organisations are also crying out for support.

Mr. Choudhury’s call to action comes at a time when many third-sector community organisations struggle to secure funding and resources. He has been a vocal advocate for these groups, hosting roundtable discussions at the Scottish Parliament to address the current funding model and barriers to access.

Here, the Scottish Government and other public bodies need to take a fair funding approach, moving to inflation-based settlements of three years or more, which consider costs such as uplifts in the real living wage.

Community organisations, such as the Polish Family Support Centre, continue to exist as a symbol of hope for the people of Edinburgh, driven by a mission to support and empower individuals and families.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “Community organisations exist as the backbone of our society. They offer vital services, from psychological support to advocacy, yet they remain overlooked and underfunded.

“It is crucial that we recognise their contributions to our community and provide them with the necessary support to continue their work.

“Edinburgh and the rest of Scotland must address the barriers to funding and ensure that smaller community-based organisations have access to the resources they need, as their work is crucial in promoting social inclusion and supporting minority groups.

“I urge everyone from policymakers to residents, to recognise the invaluable work these organisations do. They are not just service providers; they are the heart and soul of our communities.

“By supporting them, we are investing in a more inclusive, compassionate, and resilient society. Let’s come together to ensure that nobody is left behind.”

MSP Calls for transparency and protection of essential services amidst EIJB budget cuts

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for the Lothian Region, has expressed deep concern over the proposed £29 million savings programme being considered by the Edinburgh Integration Joint Board (EIJB) as part of its £900 million budget for health and social care services.

The EIJB’s proposed financial strategy aims to address rising service demands, increasing costs, and demographic shifts, but Foysol Choudhury MSP emphasised the need for transparency in decision-making, highlighting the importance of long-term strategic investment.

The proposed budget cuts will be formally discussed at the EIJB meeting on March 25, 2025. Foysol Choudhury MSP is encouraging residents to stay informed and make their voices heard in the decision-making process.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: ““The health and social care system in Edinburgh is already under immense strain, and while we all recognise the financial pressures facing the EIJB, it is critical that these cuts do not disproportionately impact the most vulnerable in our community.

“We must ensure that any savings made do not come at the expense of frontline services that so many Edinburgh residents depend on.”

“We need a future-proofed approach to social care that ensures sustainability, rather than short-term fixes that could lead to deeper crises down the line. I urge the EIJB to explore all possible options, including securing additional funding and working more closely with third-sector partners.”

“With the highest record settlement from the UK Labour Government since devolution, local authorities should not be pressured to cut essential services.”

Foysol Choudhury MSP: Facing the Invisible Battle 

Addressing Men’s Mental Health and Rising Suicide Rates

As we come into the peak of spring, we as a community must come together to battle suicide and the disparate impact of mental health challenges on men that lingers beneath  the surface of our society (writes FOYSOL CHOUDHURY MSP). 

Mental health remains one of the biggest challenges facing public health in Edinburgh.  Despite breaking away from the jaws of the isolating pandemic, suicide is becoming a sadly  ever-present part of our lives. With over 792 probable suicides registered by the National  Records of Scotland in 2023, an increase of 4% from previous years, the people of Edinburgh  are ready for change. 

Recent observations by NHS Lothian and local community groups in Edinburgh, such as the  Health and Social Care Partnership, point to an alarming trend; men are disproportionately  affected by the ongoing mental health crisis that is contributing to rising suicide rates. 

Although mental health disorders are less prevalent in men compared to women, the impact  on men is typically more severe. Men with mental health conditions are less likely to seek  help, leading to greater risks. They face a significantly higher rate of suicide, with men being  three times more likely to die by suicide than women. 

Societal norms and traditional gender roles contribute to why men are often less inclined to  talk about or seek help for their mental health issues. While it is widely recognised that  gender stereotypes about women can have harmful effects, it is equally crucial to  acknowledge that these stereotypes and societal pressures can also negatively impact men. 

Alongside national and local organisations such as Andy’s Man Club and Lothians Speak Their Name, Lothian is working to focus efforts on addressing the challenges surrounding  suicide and men’s mental health.

For instance, the local community group Lothians Speak Their Name is creating a mixed-media quilt in memory of people that have died by suicide.  Here, we see Lothians residents raising awareness behind the struggles of mental health and  remembering those that have sadly lost their lives to suicide. 

We also see other groups like Andy’s Man Club, whose mission it is to prevent other families  from going through the heartache and grief caused by suicide by encouraging men to speak  openly about their issues through Monday night talking groups. And with the Great Scottish  Run taking place this October, there is plenty of time to support this great initiative. 

Other organisations in Edinburgh, such as iThrive, Change Mental Health, and Samaritans  Scotland are also striving towards facilitating change in the Lothian region concerning men’s  mental health. Furthered by the non-stop work of health care providers in NHS Lothian, we  are determined to bring men together to share their stories. 

While these initiatives are essential in order to tackle the challenges posed by suicide and  mental health challenges, it is crucial that we follow in the footsteps of those seeking  change. We must keep raising awareness of suicide in our region, emphasising more  kindness and open conversation.

In Scotland, men should not feel anxious when it comes to discussing mental health issues,  yet many still do. This shows we have not fully addressed the problem. This situation mirrors  the past, when men were reluctant to talk about prostate health until it was too late, but  attitudes have changed. We have been part of that shift and are proud of it. Now, we need  to drive similar change for mental health. 

We must ask, why do men struggle to open up? The answer lies in the burden of traditional  masculinity, just as it did with prostate health. Our goal is a Scotland where men feel  comfortable seeking help for any health concern. 

We must remember that suicide and mental health can impact anyone, at any time  throughout the year. As a community and for our loved ones, let’s begin to transform the  agenda that mental health is not unmanly; it is a prevalent virus that can affect us all. 

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or mental health issues at any time, remember that  support is available – you do not have to face it alone. 

Call a Samaritan at 116 123 any time for support.

FOYSOL CHOUDHURY MSP