Health and wellbeing – Page 46 – The NEN

Scottish Ambulance Service: Hot Weather Advice

It’s going to be a hot couple of days, so whilst enjoying the weather, make sure you keep yourself well by:

Staying hydrated

Wearing sun cream and protective clothing

Sticking to the shade during peak heat hours

Check on elderly relatives/neighbours

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde issues sun and warm weather health advice

Members of the public are being encouraged to stay safe in the sun as the current warm weather is expected to continue into this weekend.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) advised people to ensure they are protected from the sun, and to take care when barbecuing to prevent food poisoning.

It also highlighted the importance of getting the right care in the right place if help is needed for a health concern.

Common health conditions during nicer weather can include sunburn, food poisoning, bites and stings.

NHSGGC also highlighted the importance of keeping items like over-the-counter medicines, a first aid kit and an ice pack at home to help manage minor cuts, bruises, sprains and strains.

NHSGGC is asking people to consider the following:

Sunburn and sunstroke – Always cover up in the sun to protect yourself and your family from burns and heat exhaustion. This includes wearing a high-factor sunscreen and appropriate clothing and spending time in the shade.
Food poisoning – Barbecuing can lead to food poisoning if it is not done correctly. Ensure meat is cooked thoroughly and evenly, and keep cooked and raw food separate.
Medicines – Make sure you have over-the-counter medicines at home for common illnesses including paracetamol or ibuprofen, remedies for bites and stings and antihistamines for allergies.
First aid – Keep a first aid kit in your home with plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes for cuts, and an ice pack for minor strains or sprains.

For those requiring support or medical treatment for non-life-threatening conditions, there is a range of services available to help, and NHSGGC continues to ask people to ‘think ABC’ before attending A&E:

Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, visit the NHS Inform website or download the NHS24 app.

Be aware: There is help for many conditions right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or optician offer a range of services. This could include directing you to a Minor Injuries Unit or arranging an appointment for you with NHSGGC’s Virtual A&E Flow Navigation Centre.

Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.

If you think your condition or injury is very urgent or life-threatening, you should call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

For more information on accessing the care you need, please go to: Right Care, Right Place – NHSGGC.

Dr Emilia Crighton, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Director of Public Health, said: “This is a great time to get outside and enjoy warmer weather and longer days with friends and family.

“Please enjoy the good weather safely by covering up when in the sun, staying hydrated and making sure food is properly cooked if barbecued”.

“For those who do require support over this period, we want people to be aware that there are many services available to them other than emergency departments.

“By using NHS 24’s digital resources and through 111, people who need care can be seen by the most appropriate staff in the most appropriate setting.

“We ask everyone to think ABC before A&E. This will ensure you get the right care in the right place, will help reduce waiting times, and free up capacity for those who need it most.”

Rabies case confirmed following contact with animal abroad

UKHSA is reminding travellers to be careful around animals when travelling to rabies affected countries

A woman from the UK has sadly died after becoming infected with rabies, following contact with a stray dog during a visit to Morocco. The individual was diagnosed in Yorkshire and the Humber.

There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case as there is no documented evidence of rabies passing between people. However, as a precautionary measure, health workers and close contacts are being assessed and offered vaccination when necessary.

Rabies is passed on through injuries such as bites and scratches from an infected animal. It is nearly always fatal, but post-exposure treatment is very effective at preventing disease if given promptly after exposure to the virus.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding travellers to be careful around animals when travelling to rabies affected countries due to the risk of catching the disease.

Dr Katherine Russell, Head of Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, at UKHSA, said: “I would like to extend my condolences to this individual’s family at this time.

“If you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found then you should wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water and seek medical advice without delay in order to get post-exposure treatment to prevent rabies.

“There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case. Human cases of rabies are extremely rare in the UK, and worldwide there are no documented instances of direct human-to-human transmission.”

Rabies does not circulate in either wild or domestic animals in the UK, although some species of bats can carry a rabies-like virus. No human cases of rabies acquired in the UK from animals other than bats have been reported since 1902.

Between 2000 and 2024 there were 6 cases of human rabies associated with animal exposures abroad reported in the UK.

Rabies is common in other parts of the world, especially in Asia and Africa. All travellers to rabies affected countries should avoid contact with dogs, cats and other animals wherever possible, and seek advice about the need for rabies vaccine prior to travel.

You should take immediate action to wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water, if:

you’ve been bitten or scratched by an animal while you’re abroad in a country with rabies
an animal has licked your eyes, nose or mouth, or licked a wound you have, while you’re abroad in a country with rabies
you’ve been bitten or scratched by a bat in the UK

Local medical advice should be sought without delay, even in those who have been previously vaccinated.

When given promptly after an exposure, a course of rabies post-exposure treatment is extremely effective at preventing the disease.

If such an exposure occurs abroad, the traveller should also consult their doctor on return, so that the course of rabies treatment can be completed. If travellers have not sought medical advice abroad, they should contact their doctor promptly upon return for assessment.

Rabies – Information for travel leaflet. Public Health England. Product code: 400322RT. Gateway Number: 2024664.

For more information on the risk of rabies in different countries, see the country information pages on the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s (NaTHNaC’s) website, TravelHealthPro.

For more general information about rabies, see the NHS website or the UKHSA leaflet on rabies risks for travellers.

Pension Age Winter Heating Payments

Proposals to support pensioners in Scotland this winter

All pensioners in Scotland with an income of less than £35,000 will receive Pension Age Winter Heating Payments this winter of either £203.40 or £305.10 per household, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has confirmed.

This means pensioners in Scotland will be better off compared to those in the rest of the UK.

Pensioner households with no-one aged 80 or over will receive £203.40, rising to £305.10 for households with someone aged 80 or over.

Following the UK Government’s recent change to winter fuel payments, the Scottish Government will withdraw the current amendment regulations before the Scottish Parliament, which were previously lodged in order to protect pensioners in Scotland against the UK Government’s planned cuts to winter fuel payments.

The move will now see over 720,000 Scottish pensioners benefit.

Ms Somerville said: “The UK Government’s decision to cut the Winter Fuel Payment last winter was a betrayal of millions of pensioners, and their recent U-turn is welcome if belated.

“Following careful consideration of the options available, the Scottish Government will mirror the approach taken by the UK Government. We will bring forward regulations to ensure that, from this winter onwards, all pensioners will receive either £203.40 or £305.10 per household, depending on age.

“We are in discussion with the UK Government to extend the proposed arrangements in England and Wales to recover payments from those pensioners with an individual income of more than £35,000 through the tax system.

“The intention is that the payment will be recovered automatically, and pensioners will not need to register with HMRC for this or take any further action.

“This approach ensures a higher level of support which those most in need will receive. Over 720,000 Scottish pensioners are estimated to benefit from the higher payment.”

Leading pensioner poverty charity welcomes decision on Pension Age Winter Heating Payment

Debbie Horne, Scotland Policy and Public Affairs Manager at Independent Age, said: “We welcome today’s confirmation from the Scottish Government that all older people with an income of less than £35,000 a year will receive the higher rate of Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.

“This decision will provide some comfort to the hundreds of thousands of older people in Scotland who live in fuel poverty.

“In a compassionate and wealthy society, no one should struggle to stay warm in the winter due to cost. The commitment by the Scottish Government to uprate the PAWHP annually is also welcome and key to ensuring the payment does not lose its value due to inflation.

“This means the payment will now be worth £203.40 or £305.10 per household, depending on age, with the payment recovered through tax from those with an income over £35,000.

“We welcome this decision and hope the Scottish Government continues to take steps to reduce financial hardship, including the creation of a strategy to tackle pensioner poverty.”

Scotland celebrates first-ever National Day of Movement

The launch of Scotland’s National Day of Movement marks a new chapter in championing inclusive activity for people living with long-term health conditions

The Scottish Government’s public health minister yesterday (18^th June) joined participants representing Scotland’s third sector in enjoying the benefits of physical activity to help celebrate Scotland’s first-ever National Day of Movement.

Held outside the Scottish Parliament and led by the Movement for Health Coalition, the event attracted community and health leaders, political and government representatives, academics, and people living with long-term conditions to celebrate movement in all its varied forms.

The event formed part of a wider day of celebrations focused on all forms of physical activity in Scotland by charity partners, government, and academia.

The National Day of Movement is a celebration of all forms of movement and the benefits this brings to our physical, mental, and social health.

It shines a spotlight on a more inclusive approach to physical activity, especially for the nearly 50% of adults in Scotland living with at least one long-term health condition who often face unique barriers that make reaching global physical activity guidelines difficult.

Today we celebrate those who fight through the pain, tiredness and other challenges, to find happiness and health in any movement they enjoy, big or small, and reminds us that all steps forward count.

The third sector, community and local government organisations play a vital role in turning movement into something enjoyable and achievable.

Movement for Health coalition members and partners are leading the way, supporting those that live with minor and limited movements due to their health conditions through inclusive, welcoming, and social physical activity programmes across the whole of Scotland.

This year’s National Day of Movement showcased just how empowering, joyful and accessible these activities can be, including breath work, gardening, and seated sports such as Boccia.

The event also shone a light on the importance of rest and pace for people living with chronic pain and fatigue conditions. Messaging supporting physical activity needs to reflect this knowledge to reach Scotland’s least active communities successfully.

Jenni Minto MSP, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health, Scottish Government, said: “I am delighted to celebrate Scotland’s first-ever National Day of Movement with the Movement for Health coalition today. We know that building more movement into our daily lives benefits us physically, mentally and socially.

“We want to do more to support people with disabilities and long term health conditions to move more, but we need to make sure that we do that in a way that is based on an understanding of the individual challenges that people face.

“The Movement for Health coalition provides an invaluable forum to provide insights into these challenges across a range of health conditions. We must continue to use these insights, both nationally and locally, to ensure that we are providing the right support and creating a culture of movement that is accessible and welcoming to all.”

James Jopling, Scotland Director at Parkinson’s UK said: “Movement really makes a difference. By coming together and celebrating moves, big and small, we are collectively saying – This is important.

“Supporting people living with a huge variety of health conditions to benefit from movement is something that needs greater investment and prioritisation to sustain and improve the nations’ health.”

Emma Anderson, Movement for Health Manager, said: “The National Day of Movement is a powerful reminder that all movement matters.

“Whether it’s a short walk, a gentle stretch, or dancing in your kitchen, it’s about celebrating what people can do. That’s how we create a more active, inclusive Scotland – by making space for every kind of movement.

“Our coalition members and partners see every day how movement transforms lives.

“Today was a chance to showcase just that – highlighting the joy, connection, and confidence that come when people are supported to move in ways that feel right for them.

“We’re grateful to everyone who joined us today to celebrate our achievements and hope that, together, we can continue to champion inclusive movement across Scotland.”

NHS Lothian Nurses honoured at prestigious RCN Awards

Huge congratulations to our incredible staff who have been recognised at this year’s RCN Nursing Awards!

NHS Lothian staff were recognised at this years RCN awards for their pioneering innovations, dedication and exceptional care.

Kath Williamson, Senior Clinical Nurse Specialist in Bariatric Care, picked up the Inspiring Excellence – Nursing Innovation and Research Award at the ceremony at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.

Described as a pioneering nurse and researcher, Kath is dedicated to improving care for people living with severe obesity.

While working as a District Nurse, she identified a critical gap in services for housebound patients and went on to pursue a PhD to better understand their needs, experiences, and the associated costs of care. Her mixed-methods research has revealed fragmented services, widespread stigma, and significant unmet needs among this vulnerable group.

With the support of her CSO Fellowship, Kath established the NHS Lothian Bariatric Forum, a multidisciplinary group working to improve care coordination and outcomes for patients with complex obesity. Despite the limited clinical academic pathways for nurses in Scotland, Kath continues to lead innovative research, mentor others, and advocate for greater nurse involvement in academic work.

In a close second, Stacey Boyle, Midwife, and Marianne Hay, Senior Charge Midwife at St. John’s Hospital, were recognised as runners-up for their innovative scrubs, made from recycled NHS fleeces, that enable partners to provide vital skin-to-skin contact with their newborns after a caesarean section.

The special theatre scrubs allow newborns to nestle inside, regulating their heart rate and breathing, as well as assisting with immediate bonding, while the surgical team focus on the mum and the completion of the procedure.

Gillian McAuley, Nurse Director Acute, NHS Lothian, was named runner-up for the Clinical Leadership Award. Gillian was recognised for leading the development of a five year Nursing and Midwifery Strategic Plan, driving key initiatives like care assurance systems, digital care planning, and a BME career programme.

Through innovation, collaboration, and strategic leadership, she’s strengthened patient care and staff support.

Scott Taylor, Co-Chair of the Scottish Learning Disability Lead Nurse Group, was also a runner up for the Learning Disability Nursing Award. Along with Kerry Anderson, Scott has played a key role in advancing learning disability nursing across Scotland.

Through strategic leadership and national engagement, he’s helped raise the profile of the profession, tackled health inequalities, and ensured the needs of people with learning disabilities are reflected in national policy.

The South East Forensic Healthcare Team at the Royal Edinburgh and Associated Services, also came second for the nursing team of the year award.

The Team delivers trauma-informed, person-centred care to vulnerable individuals in the justice system. Their work spans forensic examinations, mental health support, and harm reduction services like naloxone distribution.

Partnering with agencies like Police Scotland, they tackle health inequalities and prevent drug-related deaths.

Alison MacDonald, Executive Nurse Director, NHS Lothian, said: “I’m incredibly proud of all our staff who have been recognised at this year’s RCN Awards.

“Congratulations to Kath on her outstanding achievement and to all our runners-up, whose dedication, innovation and compassion continue to raise the bar for nursing excellence.

“These accolades are a testament to the remarkable talent we have across NHS Lothian.”

For more information on the RCN awards check:

https://www.rcn.org.uk/scotland/Get-involved/ScotlandNurseOfTheYear2025

Creating a healthier Scotland

LONG-TERM FOCUS ON PREVENTION AND SERVICE RENEWAL

Supporting people to lead longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives will be at the heart of two new ten-year plans published today to create and maintain good health, prevent disease and reform health and social care services.

The Population Health Framework aims to tackle the root causes of poor health and outlines a wide range of actions, including giving greater access to green spaces and opportunities for sport and active recreation.

Addressing these underlying factors can increase life expectancy, reduce the gap between the most deprived communities and the national average and prevent chronic illnesses like diabetes and cardiovascular disease which disproportionately affect those in more disadvantaged areas.

The Population Health Framework includes legislating to make the balance of foods available on promotion healthier and to restrict the location of less healthy foods in stores and on websites.

Targeting the location and promotion of foods high in fat, salt or sugar will focus on those foods of most concern for childhood obesity, which mirrors the current policy in England and Wales.

The Health and Social Care Service Renewal Framework aims to ensure health and social care services are sustainable, efficient, high quality, and accessible – which includes being able to expect faster and fairer access to care.

It empowers people to be more involved in and in charge of their own care and includes measures to improve access to treatment in the community; enhance preventative services and maximise the opportunities of digital innovation.

There will also be a new national body called NHS Delivery, created by bringing together NHS National Services Scotland and NHS Education for Scotland.

This will provide a focal point for training, digital and support to other health boards, with scope to deliver more national support to local services in future.

Health Secretary Neil Gray visited Blackburn Partnership Centre in West Lothian with COSLA Health and Social Care Spokesperson Councillor Paul Kelly before launching the frameworks in the Scottish Parliament.

The centre includes a GP practice and community centre which promotes weight loss and healthy living through exercise and low-cost, nutritious food.

Mr Gray said: “Too many lives are cut short in Scotland because of illness that is preventable. We know health is not determined solely by what happens within the walls of hospitals or care homes and we want to create an environment in which everyone can live a healthy life.

“Through action on early years, jobs, income and building powerful communities the Population Health Framework builds the conditions to help people thrive and prevent poor health.

“Addressing the problem of obesity and helping people eat well and maintain a healthy weight is a public health priority. We are taking wide-ranging action to support people to make healthier food choices, recognising the contribution which poor diet makes to worsening health trends.

“Through the Service Renewal Framework we will take action to deliver care closer to home, support people to better manage their own treatment and build on innovation, digital and treatment advances.

“This will help shape an efficient health and social care system that is focused on prevention and early intervention, and delivers high quality care at the right time in the right place. The creation of a new national body, NHS Delivery, will help to support that journey.

“Refocusing the whole system towards preventing ill-health from occurring or escalating can help us ensure the sustainability of our National Health Service. I am determined to ensure the measures outlined are delivered effectively and as quickly as possible as we work to transform the health of the nation.”

Cllr Kelly said: “Health is created in the communities in which we live, go to school or work, and access essential services. It is at the local level where we find the key levers to tackle the root causes of health problems and ensure people live long, healthy and fulfilling lives. Local Authorities, working with key partners, are uniquely placed to shape our communities.

“The Population Health Framework sets out action across every building block of health. Committing to this preventative approach requires whole system working in order to intervene as early as possible and provide support to people in all aspects of their lives.

“Currently, people from deprived communities have less access to affordable, nutritious food. The Population Health Framework sets out a priority to improve the food environment and ensure access to a healthy, balanced diet is accessible and affordable to all.

“Alongside this, Local Government is committed to improving public services across the whole system, and the Health and Social Care Service Renewal Framework sets out our high level ambition for improving the sustainability of the system and services people may need in order to help them live healthier, fulfilled lives.”

Obesity Action Scotland Chair Andrew Fraser said: “Obesity Action Scotland welcomes the Scottish Government’s commitment to taking progressive measures on retail food and drink promotions.

“They will improve the food environment and protect consumers from in-store choices that encourage people to purchase food that is high in fat, sugar and salt.

“Promotions result in over-consumption of calories, and make it easy to gain weight; measures that counter this pressure on consumers will contribute to the prevention of overweight and obesity that we want to see.”

Population Health Framework

Health and Social Care Service Renewal Framework

Swing into Summer with Edinburgh Leisure’s Citywide Golf Campaign

Edinburgh Leisure is inviting locals and visitors alike to “Swing into Summer” with a fresh campaign celebrating the city’s six diverse golf courses and a new exhibition showcasing Edinburgh’s rich golfing heritage.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a curious beginner, Edinburgh Leisure offers the perfect tee-off point with a choice of six scenic courses across the city. With both 9- and 18-hole options, flexible memberships, and pay-as-you-play access, there’s something for every skill level and schedule.

The “Swing into Summer” campaign aims to boost participation in golf by highlighting the sport’s accessibility, sociability, and health benefits—especially for retirees, young professionals, and casual players looking for a relaxing way to stay active.

It also positions Edinburgh Leisure as the ideal launchpad for summer golf adventures, including the prestigious Scottish Open in North Berwick this July.

Discover the Courses

Braid Hills – A historic course with panoramic views and a legacy tied to golfing legends like James Braid and Tommy Armour.
The Wee Braids – A family-friendly 9-hole course perfect for beginners and quick rounds, just minutes from the city centre.
Silverknowes – A coastal gem with generous fairways and stunning views across the Firth of Forth.
Craigentinny – A walkable parkland course with vistas of Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, offering a mix of challenging holes.
Carrick Knowe – Nestled near Murrayfield Stadium, this mature course blends tradition with modern design.
Portobello – A compact and forgiving 9-hole course with tight greens and a memorable finishing hole.

Teeing Off Through Time: A Golf Heritage Exhibition

As part of the Edinburgh 900 celebrations, Edinburgh Leisure is proud to present “Teeing Off Through Time”, which will be on permanent display at Silverknowes Golf Course. There will also be an opportunity to visit the exhibition from 9–15 July at St James Quarter, next to Mhor Bakery on Leith Street, where it will be on display as part of Edinburgh Leisure’s contribution to Edinburgh 900.

This free exhibition explores Edinburgh’s pivotal role in the history of golf, showcases the stories behind Edinburgh Leisure’s six courses, and celebrates iconic local tournaments like the Dispatch Trophy and Gibson Cup.

Visitors can also view rare photographs and memorabilia from the Braid Hills and Silverknowes collections, made possible by the Sporting Heritage Grants Programme and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which will be on display again at Silverknowes from the beginning of July.

Book Your Round Today

Whether you’re chasing birdies or just enjoying the views, there’s never been a better time to play.

Book your round and explore Edinburgh’s golfing legacy today.

Book online now – https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/golf/

Scan here to get a bird’s eye view of Edinburgh Leisure’s golf courses.

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“Exciting” drug study could detect unrecognised cancer symptoms earlier

An innovative new study, funded by Cancer Research UK, aims to identify patients with early signs of cancer through medications they are prescribed before they are diagnosed with the disease.

It’s hoped the project could help identify various cancers at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be effective.

A team of researchers including Professor Chris Cardwell, Professor Carmel Hughes, Dr Sarah Baxter, Dr David Wright and Dr Blánaid Hicks of Queen’s University Belfast with Professor Peter Murchie of the University of Aberdeen, will study extensive anonymised medical information to identify treatments given to people who are then diagnosed with cancer.

The research will be the first of its kind to study prescription information comprehensively in the UK. Similar studies have been carried out overseas and smaller studies conducted looking at fewer cancer types in the UK.

Previous studies have already shown increased use of pain and indigestion medication in women with ovarian cancer up to eight months before diagnosis and increases in haemorrhoid treatments in patients with colorectal cancer up to 15 months before diagnosis.

Professor Chris Cardwell, of Queen’s University Belfast, said: “Our study has the potential to identify previously unrecognised medications which are newly used in the period up to two years before cancer diagnosis.

“These changes in specific medications could act as an alert for doctors to consider earlier cancer investigation or point to unrecognised symptom patterns.

“Diagnosing cancer as early as possible is key to ensuring treatment is as effective as possible and give patients the best chance of recovery.”

The study, which will receive £76,462 from Cancer Research UK, will focus on eight cancers: multiple myeloma, pancreatic, stomach, ovarian, lung, renal, colorectal and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – selected because these cancers are known to involve more GP consultations prior to diagnosis.

Currently, there are many symptoms and medical conditions known to be associated with cancer, but often symptoms can indicate a variety of conditions, not just cancer, making diagnosis harder.

Professor Peter Murchie, of the University of Aberdeen, said: “This is an exciting study which we hope will show how our increasingly sophisticated health records can be used for the maximum patient benefit.

“We know symptoms of cancer can develop slowly so changes in our prescription data could become a very important early warning signal to prompt busy GPs.”

Prescription data from the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank at Swansea University, which works with the NHS to provide crucial information for researchers while keeping data anonymous and protected, will be used.

This requires permission from the Databank’s Information Governance Review Panel which oversees the safe and responsible use of population health records.

Codes used in the NHS to indicate medication prescriptions are easier to analyse and track than symptoms, for example an increase in dose or stronger medication can be flagged more easily to medical colleagues than notes on a patient’s record saying a symptom is worsening.

Cancer Research UK Director of Research, Dr Catherine Elliott, said: “Innovative approaches to tackling cancer are crucial to improving outcomes for patients. We have already made great strides in turning many types of cancer into a treatable disease if diagnosed at an early stage, and studies like this aim to help doctors identify people at risk of cancer much earlier.

“Earlier diagnosis takes us further along the path towards a world where cancer diagnosis is the start of the road to recovery and a less fearful prospect for patients.”

Nearly one in two people born in the UK will get cancer in their lifetime.*

With around 10,300 people being diagnosed with cancer each year in Northern Ireland (385,000 across the UK) finding new ways to diagnose cancer earlier, is vital.**

Vaccine to prevent gonorrhoea

Reducing diagnoses to address antibiotics resistance

Thousands of cases of the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhoea could be prevented through a new vaccine programme.

The Scottish Government is funding the programme, which will begin in August, to address increasing health inequalities and growing resistance to antibiotics treatment.

Those eligible include gay and bisexual men at highest risk of infection, those involved in selling or exchanging sex regardless of gender and those who sexual health clinic professionals assess as being at a similar risk level.

Gonorrhoea can cause significant pain and discomfort and in rare cases, life-threatening sepsis. The number of cases has been rising steadily in recent years and it is the second most common bacterial STI in Scotland. Latest figures show there were 5,999 diagnoses in 2023, a 59% increase on pre-pandemic.

Speaking at the Public Health Scotland Scottish Vaccination and Immunisation Conference in Edinburgh, Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “This action is urgent and timely since the number of diagnoses has been high and the disease is becoming increasingly difficult to treat with antibiotics.

“The science tells us that this vaccine will potentially protect thousands of people and prevent the spread of infection.

“Anything which stops people from contracting gonorrhoea in the first place can have huge benefits, including ensuring our health system remains resilient by reducing the amount of treatment needed.”

Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, Head of the Vaccination and Immunisation Division at PHS, said: “With gonorrhoea diagnoses having increased in recent years, the offer of the 4CmenB vaccine to those at highest risk of exposure is a welcome new intervention. This vaccination programme is expected to help control and prevent the spread of gonorrhoea.

“Public Health Scotland is working with the Scottish Government and colleagues across NHS Boards to finalise plans for the roll out of this targeted vaccination offering to those at increased risk of gonorrhoea from August 2025.”

Walking charity steps into new era with new name and bold rebrand

PATHS FOR ALL HAS BEEN RENAMED WALKING SCOTLAND

New name signals commitment to making Scotland more active

SCOTLAND’S national walking and wheeling charity has today announced it has rebranded, marking a bold new chapter after almost 30 years of empowering people to walk more, move more and enjoy the outdoors.

Walking Scotland has officially unveiled its new identity, replacing its long-established name, Paths for All, to better reflect its mission and growing impact across the country.

The change signals the charity’s renewed commitment to embedding walking and wheeling into the everyday lives of Scots, enhancing health, wellbeing and sustainability.

From local Health Walks to national policy changes, the organisation has built meaningful partnerships and inspired communities to enjoy the benefits of active travel.

This rebrand follows their ‘Every Day in May’ campaign as part of National Walking Month, which encouraged people across Scotland to walk daily and to discover the profound social, physical, and mental benefits that even short walks can bring.

The charity’s new name reinforces its position as the country’s national authority on walking and wheeling – building on decades of proven impact while setting ambitious goals for the future. It envisions a Scotland where everyone, regardless of who they are or where they live has access to safe, welcoming environments to walk and wheel.

Walking Scotland’s launch follows overwhelming support for a clearer, bolder brand that better communicates its purpose and makes it easier for people to get involved – whether through walking, wheeling, supporting or donating.

The shift also reflects the growing recognition of walking as a low-cost, high-impact solution to a range of societal challenges, from health inequalities to the climate-nature emergency.

Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive of Walking Scotland said: “This isn’t just a name change, it’s a renewed commitment to putting walking and wheeling at the heart of everyday life in Scotland.

“For almost 30 years, we’ve made a real difference in communities across the country. But we’re not done yet. Walking changes lives – it improves health, connects people and helps address some of Scotland’s biggest challenges.

“Walking Scotland reflects a fresh and inclusive identity that truly captures the scale of our ambition for the next 30 years. We want everyone in Scotland to be able to walk and wheel, everywhere, every day.

“The feedback from our stakeholders, communities and partners has been incredibly positive – this brand resonates and will help us reach more people and grow our impact.”

The organisation points to a growing body of evidence that supports its mission. According to the most recent national attitudes survey, over 77% of Scots agree that walking helps to clear their minds and improve their mood.

Crucially, walking is free, widely accessible, and requires no special equipment, making it a simple yet powerful tool in the fight against inactivity, social isolation, and pressure on the NHS.

To find out more about Walking Scotland, visit: www.walkingscotland.org.uk