Tag: Health and wellbeing

Underbelly raises £20,000 for Brain Cancer Research through Big Brain Tumour Benefit

  • The eighth annual Big Brain Tumour Benefit has raised £20,000 for groundbreaking research into new treatments for brain tumours.
  • Eight acts performed for this year’s benefit: Nish Kumar, Rosie Jones, Rhys James, Larry Dean, Catherine Bohart, Emmanuel Sonubi, Felicity Ward and Justin Moorhouse.

Underbelly announces the 8th Annual Big Brain Tumour Benefit has raised £20,000 for Professor Richard Gilbertson’s lab at The Cancer Research Centre in Cambridge, helping to fund new treatments for the most aggressive forms of brain tumours in children.

This year’s star-studded lineup included performances from Nish Kumar, Rhys James, Rosie Jones, Larry Dean, Catherine Bohart, Emmanuel Sonubi, Felicity Ward and Justin Moorhouse.

Underbelly created the Big Brain Tumour Benefit in 2017 following co-founder Ed Bartlam’s son Alfie being diagnosed with Ependymoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. Alfie passed away two years later, at the age of seven. 100% of the profits from the Big Brain Tumour Benefit will be donated to Professor Richard Gilbertson’s lab to fund brain cancer research.

Ed Bartlam, Underbelly’s co-founder said: I am so grateful to everyone who attended Underbelly’s 8th annual Big Brain Tumour Benefit last night, and to the fantastic line up of comedians who gave their time and talent to make it such a success.

“It’s incredible that as a community we have raised more than £20,000, with all of the funds going to Professor Richard Gilbertson’s lab and directly funding cutting-edge tumour prevention and treatment.

“The Big Brain Tumour Benefit is always such a special night, and together we can continue to raise vital funds that save lives.”

Professor Richard Gilbertson said: “We are truly excited and humbled by the amazing partnership with Underbelly and Angel Child. Everyday, we work to end the devastation caused to children and their families by brain tumours.

“We will accept nothing less than total eradication of these devastating childhood cancers. Thanks to the support we have already received we are about to take a completely new therapy to the clinic.

“We could not have done this without Underbelly and Angel Child. Together with our collaborators, we have developed a number of other, completely new and kinder treatments, taking us even closer the day when no child will suffer or die from a brain tumour.

Brain tumours are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in people under 40. They shorten life expectancy by an average of 27 years, the most of any cancer. Despite this, brain tumour research is underfunded compared to many other cancers.

The principal aim of Professor Richard Gilbertson’s Lab is to improve the accuracy of brain tumour classification and treatment, with a particular focus on children’s brain tumours.

Their research involves conducting genomic analyses of brain tumours to identify cancer-causing abnormalities, and using that knowledge to develop effective new cancer cures through clinical trials of molecular targeted therapies.

Underbelly’s Big Brain Tumour Benefit is a one-night-only show. For more information on the wider programme for the remainder of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, please visit the website here.

Cole-Hamilton calls for more respite care and holiday hubs in Edinburgh after a tough summer for families

This week, Alex Cole-Hamilton, MSP for Edinburgh North Western, visited Oaklands School in Edinburgh with Edinburgh Northern MSP, Sanne Dijkstra-Downie where they received a warm welcome from both staff and pupils.

Oaklands provides a supportive and significantly adapted learning environment for those with profound learning disabilities and associated health care needs.

The main topic of conversation centred on respite care throughout the school holidays, as many pupils and families from the school struggled to secure some, if any. This pressure on families, often unpaid carers, can be difficult to sustain.

Alex is now calling for the Scottish Government to support the City of Edinburgh Council in providing a higher level of provision for families, especially in the school holidays.

Speaking after the visit, Alex said: “Visiting Oaklands School always brings me so much joy. The staff and pupils are a delight and welcome you into their space with such kindness.

It is so hard to see these pupils struggle outside of term time, as well as their families, by not having access to appropriate levels of respite care and holiday hubs.

“Many families are also going without Section 23 assessments. The awareness amongst families of their right to a Section 23 assessment is not nearly high enough. The Scottish Government needs to act on this to ensure families have the support they need.

 “Councils need support from the Scottish Government as to how we up the ante for those who need it most during the summer months and other school holidays. We need to get it right for them and their families.”

Health: First Minister launches heart and lung MOTs

Checks to enable earlier treatment and improve life chances

People in Scotland will be empowered to make better, more informed choices about their health with access to heart and lung MOT-style checks, First Minister John Swinney has announced.

Fulfilling one of the commitments made for the Scottish Government’s first 100 days, the Healthy Heart and Lung Checks are part of wider action to identify those most at risk of cardiovascular and respiratory disease, helping to prevent illness and support earlier intervention where needed.

Delivered by Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) and supported by local NHS services, the scheme will see people take part in a range of health tests, including blood pressure and BMI measurements, heart rate, cholesterol and pulse checks and a lifestyle assessment.

People will receive advice and support based on their individual needs, allowing them to take control of their heart and lung health in a way that is relevant, achievable, and sustainable.

Initially available to people in Tayside, Glasgow and Grampian, the Scottish Government and CHSS will work together over five years to develop and extend the model. The programme will prioritise people and communities that are more likely to experience poorer health outcomes and less likely to access traditional health services, helping to reduce health inequalities and improve early diagnosis.

The First Minister will visit the CHSS Health Defence Hub in Dundee to mark the beginning of the strategic partnership today (Thursday 20 August).

He said: “We know illnesses related to heart and lung issues affect too many families in Scotland. As our population ages and our healthcare system faces growing pressure, proactive measures to keep people healthier are more important than ever.

“These Healthy Heart and Lung Checks will not only help identify people at risk of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions at an earlier stage but will also empower people to make better, more informed decisions about their health in a way which works for them.

“They will also help reach people who might not otherwise come forward, particularly in more disadvantaged communities where the burden of ill health is greatest.

“Alongside existing interventions, our new GP walk-in clinics, and additional investment in planned care, my government is delivering a strengthened NHS by reducing pressure on acute services and enabling people to get the care they need, when and where they need it.”

CHSS Chief Executive Jane-Claire Judson said: “Around one in five people in Scotland are living with a chest, heart or stroke condition, and we know that too many opportunities to prevent serious illness are missed because risks are identified too late.

“Our CHSS Health Defence Hubs are designed to take prevention directly into communities, helping people understand their health, identify risks earlier and access the support they need before life-changing conditions develop or worsen.

“We know that people experiencing the greatest barriers to good health are often the least likely to access traditional services. That is why this five-year partnership, with indicative funding of £3 million investment, will focus on reaching communities that experience poorer health outcomes, helping to tackle health inequalities that continue to affect too many people across Scotland.

“By working in partnership with the Scottish Government, the NHS and local communities over the next five years, we have an opportunity to prevent avoidable illness, improve health and give more people a fairer chance of living longer, healthier lives. Together, we can help create the conditions for a healthier Scotland, now and for the future.”

Further information on Healthy Heart and Lung Checks can be found on Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland’s website.

Helpline referrals for children experiencing domestic abuse in Scotland increased last year

  • Last year, the NSPCC Helpline made 276 referrals to agencies in Scotland where the main concern was domestic abuse – 73% higher than when the charity began recording this data.
  • The NSPCC is appealing to the public to reach out to its Helpline if they have any concern, no matter how small, about a child experiencing domestic abuse.

Referrals about a child experiencing domestic abuse made by the NSPCC Helpline to agencies in Scotland increased by more than a quarter last year.

Between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026, the charity’s Helpline made 276 referrals to local agencies in Scotland, including the police and children’s social work, where the main concern was domestic abuse. This is an increase of 27% from the previous year when there were 217 referrals, and 73% from 2021/22 when the NSPCC began recording this data*.  

The NSPCC Helpline has specially trained advisors who can speak to the public if they are worried about a child who may be experiencing or witnessing domestic abuse – whether that is physical violence or coercive and controlling behaviour.

The charity makes a referral when concerns about a child reported to the Helpline are considered to be serious enough to warrant further investigation or if it is felt a family needs support.

An adult in Scotland who contacted the NSPCC Helpline said:

“I’m worried about my little brother and my mother. I believe my mother’s boyfriend is subjecting her to ongoing domestic abuse. He restricts access to her car and regularly monitors her phone to see who’s she’s been speaking to. I’ve witnessed him being verbally aggressive, shouting, swearing, and throwing objects around the flat.

“He has also threatened to report mum to children’s services, even though he’s the one who should be reported. Mum is too frightened to ask for help which is why I’m reaching out on her behalf.”

Domestic abuse can include coercive control, and emotional, verbal, physical and financial abuse. Although the majority of domestic abuse victims are women, men can also be affected, and   it is vital support is made available to each person according to their needs.

It can have a lasting, harmful effect on a child’s wellbeing, with the repercussions extending well into the future.

Signs that a child has experienced domestic abuse can include aggression, anti-social behaviour, bed wetting, attention seeking, tantrums, withdrawal and problems in school.

Margaret ** who suffered years of abuse by her ex-husband spoke about the impact this had on her children and is urging victims ask for help:

She said: “I had always known Tony* was controlling, but after our wedding he became emotionally and psychologically abusive, threatening me and belittling me all the time. Then he started being physically abusive.

“We had two children and he became abusive towards them too, shouting and beating them with belts and shoes when I wasn’t there. I could see that they were really affected. They were subdued, sullen and didn’t really behave like children at all.

“One day, I finally snapped and called the police. They helped get us to a safe house.

“I was really worried about whether my children would be able to get over the abuse they had witnessed and endured. They took part in the NSPCC’s domestic abuse programme, and the light has come back into their eyes. They changed from quiet and subdued children to boisterous and playful – like they’ve released whatever they’d been holding on to.

“If there are any parents reading this and going through something like us, or you know someone who is, help is out there. I know my children will be OK, but without help, they may not have been.”

Paddi Vint, NSPCC Helpline Service Head, says: “It’s worrying that referrals made by the NSPCC Helpline to agencies in Scotland increased by more than a quarter last year.

“Domestic abuse is often hidden, with stigma and shame making it harder to ask for help. Children and young people might also feel frightened and confused, keeping the abuse to themselves.

“If you’re worried about a child, you can speak to our free NSPCC Helpline in complete confidence. Reaching out can be the first step to help families begin to move forward.”

Anyone with any concerns about the welfare of a child can call the NSPCC Helpline free on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk. If an adult or child is in immediate danger, call 999.

Mindful Colouring In at Blackhall Library Davidsons Mains

Next Monday, 24th August we will be starting Mindful Colouring In at Blackhall Library. These are casual sessions for anyone to join, no need to book, just come along.

For more information contact Blackhall.library@edinburgh.gov.uk

Hilariously brave stand-up show raises awareness for The House of Hope

Manogram – a man with breast cancer

Alan Wake, who poignantly tells his personal story of breast cancer in a stand-up comedy show, Manogram – a man with breast cancer, put on an exclusive performance in The Caves, for Edinburgh-based The House of Hope, Scotland’s first bespoke wellbeing centre for people impacted by breast cancer.

Alan’s incredible story is taking the Edinburgh Fringe by storm and explores a man’s experience of mammograms, mastectomies and hormone therapy, in a light hearted one-man show, which celebrates laughter and love through adversity, while raising awareness and funds for breast cancer.

When Alan was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, his wife had already been treated for the disease twice, and having to tell their two boys of a third breast cancer diagnosis in the family was unthinkable and according to Alan; ‘somewhat ridiculous.’

The special show received a standing ovation from the House of Hope community and supporters in the audience, when Alan asked the question; ‘Has anyone here been impacted by breast cancer?’ 

Alan said: “I was blown away by the support shown for the show and the audience unexpectedly taking to their feet was incredible. It was really moving and very powerful to see the whole room unite against breast cancer.”

House of Hope Manager, Hazel McLinden said: “Alan’s show adds a lot of love and light to people going through a breast cancer journey, which is so important. 

“We are thrilled that Alan selected The House of Hope as a charity partner and all donations will go towards improving and enhancing the wellbeing services for people impacted by breast cancer in Scotland and their families.”

Alan continues: “The impact breast cancer had on my wife Julie was totally devastating. While I have lost a breast and have a scar, most people wouldn’t realise I’ve been through breast cancer and that’s just not the same for women, who often lose a part of their identity through treatment and surgery.

“While breast cancer is no laughing matter, I wanted to raise awareness through humour, because that’s what I know best and my show gives a totally different perspective by exploring the weird and often humorous ways men support each other through banter and comradery.”

Manogram – a man with breast cancer – will continue to raise funds for breast cancer charities throughout its run at the Edinburgh Fringe, with shows running until 30th August.

For more information about Alan’s story and the important wellbeing services provided by the House of Hope visit houseofhope.org.uk.

Above-inflation 3.5% and 3.75% increases for doctors and dentists

NHS Scotland pay awards

Senior medics and dentists will receive an above-inflation pay uplift at the end of September, after the Scottish Government agreed to implement recommendations from an independent pay review board. 

Consultants, GPs, Specialty, Specialist and Associate Specialist (SAS) doctors and dentists will receive a 3.5% increase for 2026-27. Salaried community and public dental workers will have a 3.75% pay uplift, recognising particular challenges within those services. 

The pay increases, which impact on over 10,000 NHS employees, will be backdated to 1 April 2026 and are expected to begin appearing in salaries at the end of September. 

Health Secretary Angela Constance outlined the pay awards in a letter to the British Medical Association as she confirmed full acceptance of the recommended pay uplifts by the Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration (DDRB). 

Ms Constance said: “I’m grateful to all consultants, GPs, SAS doctors and dentists for the invaluable contribution they make to the people of Scotland in  delivering safe, effective and high-quality care across our communities. 

“It is, therefore, right that we recognise this by accepting the independent findings of the DDRB to deliver an equitable and affordable pay deal – one that is in line with other public sector pay awards for 2026-27. 

“We remain committed to a fair, evidence-based and independent approach to pay awards and in accepting the DDRB recommendations in full, we are supporting recruitment and retention. 

“This will help to ensure that NHS Scotland remains an attractive place to work, while balancing the need for financial sustainability across the public sector.” 

The DDRB recommendation follows significant investment in consultant’s pay over recent years. They were awarded a 6% increase in 2023-24, 10.5% in 2024-25 and 4% in 2025-26. 

Age Scotland: Encouraging and Supporting Grassroots Activity Fund

Applications are now open for grants of between £3,000 and £15,000 to community-based organisations in Scotland delivering activities and support that help people affected by dementia stay connected, supported and involved in their communities.

Funding for community groups supporting people living with dementia and unpaid carers.

Age Scotland, supported by funding from the Scottish Government, is offering grants of between £3,000 – £15,000 to community-based organisations across Scotland that support people living with dementia and unpaid carers. This funding is for activities and programmes taking place 1 April 2027 – 31 March 2028.

The Encouraging and Supporting Grassroots Activity (ESGA) Fund helps local groups deliver activities that reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and strengthen community support for people affected by dementia.

Since the fund launched, more than £1.2 million has been awarded to grassroots organisations across Scotland.

Applications for the 2027 funding round are now open.

http://age.scot/ESGA

Scottish Children’s Services Coalition: Scottish Government child mental health spending target now impossible to meet

The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition (SCSC), which campaigns to improve services for vulnerable children and young people, has warned that a Scottish Government commitment to allocate 1 per cent of frontline NHS spending to child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) by the end of the previous parliamentary term in 2026 is now IMPOSSIBLE to meet.

Figures from Public Health Scotland for financial year 2024/25, published today (11th August), show that spending on CAMHS accounted for 0.84 per cent of frontline NHS expenditure, up from 0.81 per cent in 2023/24 and 0.75 per cent in 2022/23 (see Notes to Editors).

Spending on CAMHS in 2024/25 stood at just over £146.5 million, an increase of £12.5 million from just over £134 million in 2023/24. Given the scale of the remaining gap, it is now impossible to see how the 1 per cent target id to be achieved in 2025/26, the final year of the previous parliamentary term.

A separate commitment to allocate 10 per cent of frontline NHS expenditure to mental health services more broadly also looks unlikely to have been met. The latest figures show that this stood at 9.14 per cent in 2024/25, compared with 9.03 per cent the previous year and 8.53 per cent in 2022/23.

The commitments to direct 1 per cent of frontline NHS spending specifically to CAMHS and 10 per cent to mental health services overall were made in the Scottish Government’s 2021 Programme for Government.

When the commitments were made, in financial year 2021/22, spending stood at 0.66 per cent for CAMHS and 8.66 per cent for mental health services more broadly.

While spending has increased since then, the pressures on children and young people have also intensified. The long shadow of the Covid pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and persistent poverty in Scotland’s most economically disadvantaged communities have all contributed to the scale of the mental health challenge.

With the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government due in September, the SCSC notes that this is a critical opportunity to reaffirm these commitments and set out a clear and credible plan for delivering them.

A spokesperson for the SCSC said: “While there has been progress in increasing investment, the figures are clear: the Scottish Government is falling short of its commitment to spend 1 per cent of frontline NHS expenditure on children and young people’s mental health services. The wider commitment to spend 10 per cent on mental health services also remains unmet.

“These targets matter. They reflect the scale of investment needed to address Scotland’s growing mental health challenges and ensure that children and young people can access the support they need, when they need it. Against the continuing impact of the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and poverty, the need for action has never been more urgent.

“With the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government due in September, there is a critical opportunity to reaffirm these commitments and set out a clear and credible plan for delivering them. We urgently need to see the necessary investment put in place to meet the 1 per cent CAMHS and 10 per cent wider mental health spending targets.

“But increased spending must go hand in hand with a decisive shift towards prevention and early intervention. Mental health needs to be at the heart of policymaking across government, tackling the underlying causes of poor mental health and ensuring support is available before children and young people reach crisis point.

“The Programme for Government must therefore turn these commitments into action. Scotland’s children and young people cannot afford further delay.

“Meeting these spending targets must be treated as a priority, backed by sustained investment and a clear timetable for delivery.”