Tag: Health and wellbeing

New Suicide Prevention Action Plan published

Working together to prevent suicide

A new national action plan setting out Scotland’s priorities for suicide prevention over the next three years has been backed by an increased budget of at least £3 million in 2026-27.

Creating Hope Together: Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2026–2029 aims to reduce suicide deaths, address the inequalities that can increase risk, and ensure anyone affected by suicide can access timely, compassionate support.

It’s the next phase of Scotland’s ambitious ten-year suicide prevention strategy, jointly led by the Scottish Government and COSLA, and focuses on four priorities:

  • supporting people at greatest risk of suicide, and creating safer environments
  • building understanding about suicide and capability to respond across communities
  • ensuring access to timely and compassionate support
  • strengthening foundations for effective delivery through improved data, evidence and collaboration

The latest official statistics from National Records of Scotland show the number of probable suicides in 2024 decreased by 11% compared to 2023 – the lowest number since 2017.

Total mental health spending is expected to exceed £1.5 billion in 2026-27.

Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur said: “Every person lost to suicide is a tragedy with far reaching impacts on families, friends and communities. Suicide prevention is everyone’s business, and I am determined that everyone has timely access to the right mental health support. While the latest official statistics show a decrease in the number of probable suicides, there is no room for complacency.

“The suicide prevention funding has increased to at least £3 million in 2026–27, up from £2.8 million. The increased budget will allow us to focus on tackling the stigma of suicide, encouraging people to seek help, and providing a range of support for people affected by suicide.

“The new plan is focused on prevention, early intervention and reaching those who need support most, including young people and those impacted by social inequalities, stigma and discrimination. I want to thank Suicide Prevention Scotland and the many other local and national partners, especially those with lived experience, who helped shape this Plan.”

Cllr Paul Kelly, COSLA Spokesperson for Health and Social Care, said: ““Suicide Prevention cannot be achieved by working in silos. We need to work across government – local and national – and with our communities to address the complex factors involved in creating conditions that can increase suicide risk, as well as harnessing those that promote better mental wellbeing.

“This new action plan is informed by learning from both national and local delivery and emerging practice. It builds on the ambition and achievements of the previous plan, accelerating progress towards our shared vision: that everyone in Scotland can access the right support at the right time.”

Declan Harrigan – CEO – S.M.I.L.E. Counselling added: ““S.M.I.L.E. Counselling warmly welcomes the Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2026–2029 and is hopeful that its ambitions can be fully realised through strong partnership working across the third sector, statutory services and communities.

“The clear focus on children and young people, early intervention, and addressing inequalities reflects what we know is needed to prevent suicide and save lives.

“We strongly support the plan’s emphasis on community-based approaches and believe that increased training and development at a local level around suicide prevention, intervention and postvention is pivotal. By building confidence, reducing stigma and equipping communities with the right skills and compassion, we can work together to create suicide-safer environments and, wherever possible, prevent deaths by suicide.

“We look forward to continuing to play an active role alongside partners in supporting children, young people and families, and in helping to turn this shared vision into meaningful, life-saving action.”

The plan builds on the learning from delivering the first action plan, drawing on academic research, insights from Suicide Prevention Scotland, local and national delivery partners, and the voices of people with experience of suicide, including children, young people and their families.

Creating Hope Together: Scotland’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2026-2029 – gov.scot

Public Health Scotland: Transport Poverty Policy Review

Transport poverty is ‘a lack of transport of options that are: Available, Reliable, Affordable, Accessible and Safe that allow people to meet their daily needs and achieve a reasonable quality of life’.

This is a report of a review that aimed to assess whether selected national transport policies were likely to achieve a population level impact on dimensions of transport poverty in Scotland:

transport-poverty-policy-reviewDownload
transport-poverty-policy-review-summary-briefingDownload

Step up for mental health: people in Edinburgh encouraged to jog 28 miles this February

People in Edinburgh are encouraged to swap their slippers for their trainers this February and take part in Jog 28, a month-long challenge designed to boost physical health, mental wellbeing, and support vital mental health work.

Jog 28 runs throughout February and invites participants to complete 28 miles over 28 days. The challenge is free to join and open to all ages and abilities.  Entrants are encouraged to register soon with the start of challenge just days away.

Participants can jog, walk, or run their miles at their own pace, making it an easy way to stay active and connected.

Fiona Halton, Head of Fundraising at Mental Health Foundation, said: “Whether you want to keep up the momentum of a great start to 2026, or like many of us, are getting through the gruelling first weeks of January and are primed to get up and moving; the Mental Health Foundation has got you covered with Jog 28, a challenge fundraiser that supports not just your physical health and mental wellbeing, but the vital work of the charity.

“We are inviting the people of Edinburgh to join us on Jog 28. This challenge is about turning up for yourselves; by moving, taking in your surroundings and taking care of your physical health, which will in turn boost your mental wellbeing.

Fiona adds: “Things are always easier when shared, and we know connection is key for good mental health.

“Jog 28 is a perfect opportunity to step out with a friend and catch up whilst improving your wellbeing. Plus, we know that it’s harder to talk past jogging pace – so keep it steady, and you’ll be able to jog and have a natter!

“Everyone deserves good mental health and every step you on take this challenge will help us build a society where everyone can thrive.

“We are not far away from February and the start of the challenge, so make sure you register in time to take part!”

Challenge details:

  • Dates: 1 – 28 February
  • Goal: Jog 28 miles throughout February
  • Cost: Free to join
  • Registration: Open now at Jog 28 Miles in February 2026
  • Fundraising Target: Whatever you can raise – every contribution matters

There’s no registration fee, and participants can sign up at any time.  Register now and receive a free Mental Health Foundation T-shirt (while stocks last).  Anyone who raises at least £30 will get a free beanie.

Why take part in Jog 28?

  • Movement matters: Regular physical activity can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy levels.
  • Connecting with nature: Spending time outdoors, even in colder months, helps us feel grounded and more present.
  • Raise vital funds: Support good mental health for all and our work across the UK
  • Social connection: Walking with friends, family, or colleagues can strengthen relationships and reduce feelings of isolation.
  • Kindness in action: Taking on a challenge to support others is a meaningful act of compassion, and kindness is proven to benefit our own mental health too.

For more information and to sign up, visit mentalhealth.org.uk/Jog28

Samaritans Scotland urges people to check in on a friend

Samaritans encouraged people across Scotland to check in on a friend yesterday for its annual Brew Monday campaign, which aims to dispel the myth of ‘Blue Monday’.  

The second last Monday in January is often referred to as ‘Blue Monday’, but at Samaritans Scotland, we know there’s no such thing. Feeling low isn’t something that just happens on a random Monday in January.    

So, we decided it’s out with the blue, and in with the Brew. This Brew Monday, 19th January, Samaritans reminded everyone that having a chat over a cuppa is an easy way to make a big difference to someone who might be struggling.   

The suicide prevention charity is centred on the power of human connection, and its awareness campaign encourages people to come together and have a conversation with someone they are worried about – because it could save a life.  

Volunteers held pop-up events at train stations across the country, reaching out directly to anyone who is worried about someone or may be struggling themselves.  

Volunteers handed out tea bags and chatted to passengers about how a conversation can be lifesaving. 

Matt Hosgood, Regional Development Lead for Scotland, said:  “Samaritans are proud to bring Brew Monday back again this year, with a number of events being held across Scotland. Brew Monday is the perfect excuse to reach out and reconnect with friends and loved ones. 

“With the long winter days soon behind us, it’s important to check in and share a moment of genuine human connection. Talking can really help bring us together and less alone, so this Monday pop on the kettle and let’s turn small talk into big talk to ensure fewer people die by suicide. 

“This year, events at Edinburgh Waverley and Glasgow Central have been sponsored by Network Rail as part of Samaritans Rail Programme, whilst events in Dumfries, Lockerbie, Kilmarnock, Motherwell, Perth and Aberdeen have all been supported by ScotRail.” 

Samaritans’ partner, Three UK, sponsored Brew Monday this year as part of their mission to make connections matter.   

The winter months, particularly in Scotland, can be tough for many people. We hope you will join us in sharing our message, as we work towards seeing fewer deaths by suicide in Scotland. 

Let’s remind everyone how good a catch-up with a friend feels, as well as a nice hot drink on a cold wintery day.   

Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org 

Tackling Harmful Drinking: Alcohol industry action showcased at Holyrood event

Tackling harmful drinking was the focus of an event at Holyrood last week, sponsored by Emma Roddick, MSP for Highlands and Islands.

MSPs and other stakeholders, the third sector, Police Scotland and representatives from the drinks industry, were given the chance to see for themselves the work supported by the Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership (SAIP) and delivered across the country to tackle harm and promote an increasingly moderate and responsible approach to alcohol.

Several of the organisations that the SAIP and its members work with were represented at the event, including Drinkaware, Community Alcohol Partnerships, Best Bar None and the Portman Group.

Emma Roddick, MSP for Highlands and Islands said: “ It was fantastic to get the opportunity to host the Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership at Holyrood, bringing industry and partners together to tackle harmful drinking.

“Scotland has a complicated relationship with alcohol, and it’s important that we prevent its misuse and the damage that can be done by drinking too much, while recognising the importance of alcohol culturally, socially, and economically.

“As a Highlands and Islands MSP, I know how important whisky is locally, and we need to empower people to enjoy that without it negatively impacting their health and relationships.

“Alcohol-related hospital stays are on the decline, and last year saw a welcome decrease in alcohol deaths, but effort is needed to make sure that trajectory continues in the right direction – industry must be part of that effort.”

Paul Waterson, SAIP Chair said: “Our industry has an important role to play in encouraging moderate consumption and in tackling harmful drinking.

“The event highlighted the range of targeted interventions being taken forward in partnership across the industry, in addition to work that many companies also do individually.

“We want to have a prosperous, vibrant alcohol industry whilst at the same time driving down harmful consumption. Progress is being made but more work remains to be done.”

Rethink Blue Monday: How to turn the toughest day of the year into a financial and emotional reset

Holiday cheer has faded, credit card bills have arrived, and motivation is running low; Blue Monday on 19th January is billed to be the most depressing day of the year.

But what if instead of being something to endure, it marks the start of a powerful reset? GroceryAid – a charity that provides relief in tough times for grocery workers and their families – is urging anyone struggling with money worries and emotional strain to use Blue Monday as a chance to reach out and access the wide range of support available and kickstart a happier and healthier 2026.

Mandi Leonard, Welfare Director at GroceryAid, shares top tips for accessing vital help that could change a negative date into the start of something positive:

  1. Find out if you’re eligible for free money

A quick search on grants-search.turn2us.org.uk will tell you if you could be eligible for a financial grant from a range of sources. Or if you’re one of the 2.6 million people working in the grocery industry, GroceryAid should be your first port of call. Last year the charity provided £4.6m in financial grants to help with everything from priority debts to supporting those on a reduced income due to caring responsibilities. Find out if your eligible to apply at groceryaid.org 

  1. Combine quick-impact help with long-term support 

If you’ve got money worries and are struggling to make ends meet, see if you’re eligible for a financial grant, but don’t stop there. Underpin it with money management advice and practical support to better equip you for the future. 

Check out groceryaid.org for handy budgeting tools and help managing bills or turn to StepChange and MoneyHelper for free debt advice.

  1. Don’t wait until you are at crisis point

Many people assume support is only available in extreme circumstances but it’s available long before crisis hits. If you’re experiencing an unexpected bump in the road which is affecting your financial and emotional wellbeing, it’s time to seek help now – don’t wait for a blip to turn into an emergency. 

Contact your mortgage company or energy provider to discuss payment plans when bills start to get on top of you, and look into mental health hints and tips to tackle niggles before they get bigger.

  1. Talk to your friends and family

Let’s make suffering in silence a thing of the past. Opening up to friends and family can be the first step in making a change and by being a good listener yourself, you could be the catalyst to helping someone get back on their feet.  

Most people know someone who works in the grocery industry and could potentially benefit from GroceryAid support, whether now or in the future. Be ready to spread the word about the support available.

  1. Don’t see help as a handout

There is zero shame in asking for help and it isn’t a handout. GroceryAid, for example, provides free and confidential financial, emotional and practical support to grocery workers, from shop workers to factory operators, because they help feed the nation – it is the help they have earned. 

Mandi adds: “Blue Monday doesn’t have to be something people simply get through. It can be a moment to pause, reset and take that first step towards feeling more in control.

“At GroceryAid we see time and again how reaching out early – whether for financial help, emotional support or practical advice – can make a real difference. If things feel tough right now, you’re not alone, and support is there to help you start 2026 in a stronger, more positive place.”

For more information on the free and confidential support available, visit:  groceryaid.org.uk/get-help/ or call 08088 021 122.

Mental Health Foundation: The Blue Monday myth

#BlueMonday is widely recognised as “the most depressing day of the year”. But the fact is, it’s just a myth. We all experience highs and lows in our mental health throughout the year, not just on a random Monday in January. 💜

For more about the Blue Monday myth and some of our tips on taking care of your mental health, check out our blog: https://shorturl.at/8lDnn

#MentalHealthAwareness

#MentalHealthMatters

#MentalWellbeing

#EmotionalHealth

#MentalHealthSupport

Childhood vaccines

It’s important your child gets all the vaccines they are offered at the right time to make sure they’ve got longer-term protection as they grow up.

When it’s time, you’ll receive a letter from the NHS with details of the appointment and what vaccines they’re being offered.

Extra Time programme: After school clubs expansion

Supporting parents and improving kids’ health and wellbeing

More children across Scotland will have access to free after school activities as part of the government’s national mission to tackle poverty.

The Scottish Government’s Extra Time Programme, delivered in partnership with the Scottish Football Association, supports local football clubs and trusts to provide free before school, after school and holiday activity clubs to primary school children from low income families.

Last year up to 5,000 children across 28 local authority areas were able to attend regular services which provide childcare options for their parents.

The 2026-27 Scottish Budget is increasing investment to expand delivery and reach of after school services, building on the success of the Extra Time programme, in areas where it is required for families most in need.  

First Minister John Swinney met pupils benefiting from after school activities provided by Hibernian Community Foundation as part of the programme.

First Minister John Swinney said: “We know that families greatly value the services provided through the Extra Time Programme, which extend the school day, helping parents enter and sustain employment.

“The clubs are also hugely popular with children, enabling them to take part in football and other activities, learn new skills and access healthy food – helping improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

“The Scottish Government has supported the successful delivery of the programme through grassroots football clubs and trusts across the country, working closely with schools and community organisations.

“This is an excellent example of how we are improving outcomes for families and delivering on my priorities for Scotland – tackling poverty and growing our economy.”