The minimum price per unit of alcohol will increase by 15 pence from today.
MSPs previously voted to continue the public health measure which had been scheduled to end automatically on 30 April as part of a ‘sunset clause’ when Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) legislation was introduced in 2018.
They also voted to introduce a price increase, with a rise to 65p per unit chosen as the Scottish Government seeks to increase the positive effects of the policy and to take account of inflation.
Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “Research commended by internationally-renowned public health experts estimated that our world-leading policy has saved hundreds of lives, likely averted hundreds of alcohol-attributable hospital admissions and contributed to reducing health inequalities.
“Experts wrote to TheLancet, describing Public Health Scotland’s evaluation of minimum unit pricing as ‘high-quality’ and ‘comprehensive’, and expressing confidence that there are several hundred people with low income in Scotland who are alive today as a result of this policy.
“However, the Scottish Government is determined to do all it can to reduce alcohol-related harm and as part of that, I am working to ensure people with problematic alcohol use receive the same quality of care and support as those dealing with problematic drugs use.
“We have also made a record £112 million available to Alcohol and Drug Partnerships to deliver or commission treatment and support services locally, as well as investing £100 million in residential rehabilitation.
“I have also asked that Public Health Scotland is commissioned to review evidence and options for reducing exposure to alcohol marketing.”
The weekends are never long enough and sometimes it can feel like we’re caught in a cycle of never-ending mundane tasks; take the kids to school, walk the dog, do the washing, go shopping, make dinner, blah, blah, blah!
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Council Leaders have withdrawn support for the Scottish Government’s revised National Care Service Bill.
The Bill is currently being considered by the Scottish Parliament.
Though continuing to back key areas of reform, including enhanced support for unpaid carers, care home visitation rights and efforts to improve the experience of the social work and social care workforce, Council Leaders have expressed concern that the amended Bill currently does not reflect a model which Local Government can support.
The decision of Local Government Leaders today comes as several organisations have expressed doubt on the legislative approach adopted by Scottish Government, including those working across the care sector. Experts have also questioned the evidence for including, within the National Care Service, services which support children and young people.
Commenting, COSLA’s Health & Social Care Spokesperson, Councillor Paul Kelly said: “Local Government cannot support the amended National Care Service Bill brought forward by Scottish Government.
“Local Government has been committed to working in partnership with the Scottish Government to develop proposals to deliver a National Care Service, but unfortunately the revised legislation does not effectively represent that partnership.
“Local Government is committed to continuing our engagement with key areas of reform which can deliver improved outcomes for people, unpaid carers and our workforce. We cannot, however, offer our support for the legislation brought forward at this stage”
“It is important that the views of people accessing, working in and planning front-line support services are listened to, both with regards to the NCS legislation and also the improvements needed to overcome the sustained financial and workforce pressures being experienced across Scotland.”
The National Care Service Bill was introduced to the Scottish Parliament on June 20th 2022, and allows for the transfer of a range of social care, social work and community health functions from local authorities to a new centralised body under the direction of Scottish Ministers.
On July 12 2023, Local Government and Scottish Government announced a shared accountability partnership for delivering the National Care Service in an alternative way, with enhanced national strategic direction through the creation of a national NCS Board, but with a continued role for local decision-making and Local Government.
Scottish shoppers did a double take this week as a pop-up art exhibition turned out to be more than meets the eye.
The images – which, from a distance, could be mistaken for abstract art – turned out to be sophisticated scans of the inside of the eye.
Specsavers unveiled the display at Princes Square in Glasgow during National Eye Health Week, to demonstrate the importance of checking your eye health and to showcase the technology that is allowsing early detection of sight-threatening conditions.
The pictures were OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scans – advanced eye scans which can help to identify serious conditions, such as glaucoma, up to four years earlier than traditional methods.
Jennifer Stephenson, Chair of Specsavers Scotland, says: ‘We were inspired to showcase these images after a customer had his first OCT scan and made an off-the-cuff remark about it resembling an abstract artwork.
‘While it made us laugh, it also prompted us to put some images on public display to raise awareness of OCT, demonstrate the incredible technology we have at our disposal today and the ways in which it is helping us to make important diagnoses.’
OCT scans are separate to eye tests – they take just a few seconds and the 3D images produced show what’s going on beneath the surface of the eye. Opticians can examine all the layers inside the eye to get an even clearer idea of your eye health.
Each image on display in Glasgow showed a different eye condition, explained the tell-tale signs of those conditions in the scans, and gave information on symptoms and treatments.
The images were supplied by Birmingham Optical, an exclusive supplier of NIDEK OCT machines for the UK optical industry.
Healthcare workers, support staff and volunteers who have gone the ‘extra mile’ have been recognised at NHS Lothian’s annual Celebrating Success Awards.
Hundreds of nominations were received over 12 categories, with the winners announced at a virtual awards ceremony on Thursday evening (26 September).
The Emergency Department Frailty Service picked up the Team of the Year award, recognising their collaborative efforts in supporting frail older people who attend the Emergency Department.
The multidisciplinary team was established in February 2023 and works to deliver safe alternatives to hospital admission and care closer to home.
Dr Amy Armstrong, Consultant, ED Frailty Team, NHS Lothian said: “We are absolutely delighted to win the Team of the Year award. It’s really nice recognition of everyone’s hard work.
“We are lucky to meet lovely patients who are often very grateful for our input on the day, but it’s nice to have that recognised at an organisational level.”
The Staff Member of the Year award was scooped up by Kate Farquharson, Unit Co-ordinator, Anaesthetic Department, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh.
Kate has been in her role for 30 years and coordinates over 120 anaesthetists who work across the department, ensuring safe cover to multiple clinical areas across three different hospital sites. She was commended by her colleagues for ensuring the smooth running of an incredibly complex ship with warmth, kindness and fun.
Kate said: “I’m absolutely delighted to win Staff Member of the Year. I was really emotional and overwhelmed; it was really lovely. I’m nearing the end of my NHS career and I’m so proud and privileged to have been part of it all.”
Competition for the prestigious Health Hero award, nominated by the public, was tough with three outstanding candidates. The winner was Susanne Crichton, Team Lead Occupational Therapist & Disability Case Manager.
Susanne was nominated by Marika Komori, who she has been supporting for over two years.
Marika said: “Susanne has been instrumental in supporting me and helping me to manage my condition within the workplace. Susanne has gone above and beyond her role to give me the support, the expertise, and the advice I have needed.
“I can honestly say she has saved my life. She’s absolutely my Health Hero.”
Susanne said: “I am absolutely delighted to receive this award and a little embarrassed. It’s so lovely that someone, who was dealing with their own challenges, has taken the time to make this nomination.
“To have the opportunity to share the impact that vocational rehabilitation can have on someone’s life is brilliant. I love my job and winning this award is the icing on the cake, but I was already truly flattered and proud just to have been nominated.”
Professor John Connaghan CBE, Chair of NHS Lothian Board explained: “The Celebrating Success Awards are an important event in our calendar. They are an opportunity to recognise and honour the people working across all areas of our local health service for their tremendous contribution in helping others.
“Our finalists were chosen by their fellow colleagues, or the public, because of the invaluable role they play. They have been shortlisted from hundreds of award entries and should be incredibly proud of their amazing achievements.”
The 2024 Awards are the first for NHS Lothian Chief Executive Caroline Hiscox, who said: “The NHS is undoubtedly facing some of its most challenging times, however it is still incredibly important that we celebrate our collective achievements and honour colleagues for the exceptional things they have done.
“It was fantastic to see so many staff coming together to watch this year’s virtual Celebrating Success Awards ceremony. Thank you for making the night so special for all those who were nominated.”
For the full list of NHS Lothian’s award winners please visit:
Edinburgh Leisure, the biggest sports and leisure provider across the city, is revolutionising the fitness arena with the opening of a new hybrid gym and official Hyrox Affiliate Training Club in Edinburgh.
The global phenomenon of Hyrox, the fitness competition that’s sweeping the globe, has played a part in the increasing popularity of hybrid training, and Edinburgh Leisure will be the first leisure trust affiliated with Hyrox and will have classes for those new to Hyrox as well as for experienced Hyroxers and fitness enthusiasts.
Set to open at Meadowbank Sports Centre on 14th October, Evolve Meadowbank will feature all the equipment, training and classes required to train towards hybrid competitions such as Hyrox and Deadly Dozen, and to reach your fitness goals.
This new gym area will be a fully timetabled space with two different training methods. It will include coach-led, class-based sessions including Hyrox and Strength & Conditioning style classes or open gym sessions for following one’s own workout plan which is not coach-led. The timetable will be available on the app and online and bookings are made via the Edinburgh Leisure website or app.
Ally Strachan, Fitness Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure said: “This is an exciting development in Edinburgh Leisure’s fitness offering. We will be one of the first leisure trust in the UK to offer such an experience.
“Our new Evolve Meadowbank will be the ultimate destination for fitness enthusiasts seeking a dynamic and inclusive environment whether it’s to improve their overall fitness, prepare for a competition, or simply try something new.
“We’ll be offering a unique blend of traditional hybrid gym equipment, and specialised Hyrox training programmes designed to elevate the workout experience.
“To celebrate the opening of our hybrid gym, we are offering free trial classes from 7th-13th October to members and non-members, available to book from TODAY Friday, 27th September.
“The trial classes are the perfect opportunity to explore our facility, meet our coaches, and experience the unique benefits of hybrid training at no cost.
“Spaces are limited and booking is advisable. Head to the Edinburgh Leisure website or app to book. Look for the Evolve Gym Bookings tile on the Meadowbank venue page.”
The classes on offer will include Hyrox Training classes and Beginner Hyrox sessions for those looking to learn more about the fitness craze that has gripped the nation.
The Evolve Meadowbank membership is separate from Edinburgh Leisure’s current fitness offering. For new members, the Evolve Membership, will cost £59.99 per month, It gives unlimited access to Edinburgh Leisure’s new state of the art hybrid gym facilities at Meadowbank Sports Centre; full access to all the official Hyrox training equipment including Sled Track, Concept 2 Ski and Row Ergs, Wall Balls and a bespoke rig; new and exclusive Evolve Cardio and Hybrid fitness classes; specialised Hyrox training classes; and access to Meadowbank’s leading indoor and outdoor athletics tracks for further training, subject to availability.
For current members of Edinburgh Leisure, a bolt-on is available to buy for an additional £39.99 per month to their existing membership.
Limited memberships will be available to ensure a personalised and high-quality experience for all members. Memberships are available to be bought from Friday, 27th September.
Evolve Meadowbank officially opens on Monday, 14th October with session and class bookings going live from Saturday, 4th October at 9 pm.
All sessions and classes are bookable, with the Evolve gym open every day at varying times to accommodate different schedules.
A bereaved mother is calling on families to talk about organ and tissue donation after her “kind” son saved the lives of three people.
Lynn Campbell, 55, from Bathgate, lost her son Robbie, 30, in 2023 after a sudden fall. He suffered a brain bleed and tragically never regained consciousness.
However big-hearted Robbie had already registered as an organ donor which meant he was able to give the gift of life to three other people.
Lynn said: “Three people are still alive because of my son and I feel so proud of Robbie for saving their lives.
“Robbie was the most kind and caring person I’ve ever known. He would always buy me really thoughtful gifts for birthdays and Christmas and people often said to me that ‘everyone needs a Robbie in their life’.
“He was such an active guy, always running and golfing and he had a real zest for life. He was football mad and was a loyal supporter of Scotland and Falkirk football teams – he had watched their matches all over the world with the whole family.”
Robbie was rushed to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh Hospital after his fall, but the medical teams confirmed that there was no brain activity.
Despite the devastating loss of their son, Robbie’s family was informed that he had registered as an organ donor and could potentially be a match for patients on the transplant waiting list.
Specialist nurses supported Robbie’s family as transplant teams identified three patients in urgent need of a transplant, whose lives were saved by Robbie’s heart and kidneys.
One year on, Lynn a Director of a Recruitment company and mum of two, is still struggling to come to terms with the death of her son and is considering setting up a charity to support grieving families.
“After Robbie passed, my husband and I went to Loch Lomond for a break. When we asked for the bill, the waiter said our son had already paid for it. Robbie knew we were going before he died and wanted to treat us. That’s the kind of person he was, and I want to honour his kindness by helping other families.
“We were so grateful to receive so much support from Robbie’s colleagues, friends, and family but there are families out there who don’t have the same level of support. I recently gave a talk to families at The Order of St John’s Awards in Glasgow, and I wanted them to know that I’ve been where you are and that things do get better.”
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the NHS Organ Donor Register, with over 571,000 people in Lothian – approximately 63% of the population – registered as organ donors.
Lynn is urging others to consider what organs they would be happy to donate and to ensure that this decision is recorded on the organ donor register and shared with their family.
She added: “Every day I feel like I wake up in a nightmare but then I remember that Robbie’s heart still beats in someone else and that brings me so much comfort.
“I would really encourage everyone to register their organ donor selections online and to speak to their loved ones about this decision.”
James Powell, Associate Medical Director Surgical Services, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and Consultant Transplant Surgeon, NHS Lothian, said: “Although we have an opt-out policy, it is still vital for individuals to make their wishes clear and have those conversations with their families.
“Robbie’s decision to join the Organ Donor Register is a powerful reminder of the positive impact one person can have, and how important it is to discuss organ donation with loved ones.”
For details about organ donation and to register your decision, visit:
National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh 25 January – 27 April 2025 Free admission
An exhibition telling the story of the global effort to develop a COVID-19 vaccine will open at the National Museum of Scotland in January.
Injecting Hope: The Race for a COVID-19 Vaccine explores the scientific principles and adaptation of innovative research behind this extraordinary endeavour. It looks at the UK-wide, behind-the-scenes work that accompanied the vaccines’ rapid development, production, transport and delivery and examines the sheer logistical challenges behind the worldwide rollout.
Revealing the inspiring stories of scientists and innovators collaborating around the globe to find solutions and save lives, the exhibition will show how these people have shaped the world we live in today.
Showcasing more than 100 objects and stories that were collected during the peak of the pandemic, it features artworks, interactives, and personal objects examining everything from the virus itself to the work done behind the scenes by volunteers and researchers to make huge innovations possible.
Highlights include the vial of the first COVID-19 vaccine to be administered worldwide, notebooks used by June Almeida, the Scottish scientist who discovered coronavirus in 1966 and artworks interpreting the story of the pandemic by artists including Luke Jerram, Angela Palmer and Junko Mori.
New content created for the exhibition’s Scottish run will explore some of the uniquely Scottish experiences of the pandemic.
Sophie Goggins, Senior Curator of Biomedical Science at National Museums Scotland said: “The development and rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine in record time is one of the greatest collaborative human achievements in recent memory.
“This exhibition tells the story of just how this extraordinary feat came to be; from the scientific breakthroughs which led to the creation of the vaccine to the countless individuals who helped to roll it out around the globe.”
Injecting Hope is presented by the Science Museum Group (SMG). It comes to the National Museum of Scotland as part of a national and international tour following its inaugural run at the Science Museum in London.
It forms part of a project with the National Council of Science Museums in India and the Guangdong Science Center in China, which, alongside the Science Museum, opened exhibitions in November 2022.
Injecting Hope builds on the work SMG has undertaken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including its COVID-19 collecting project, hosting NHS vaccination centres within its museums and public engagement events and materials.
The Injecting Hope project, including the international tour and UK national tour, has been generously supported by Wellcome. The Huo Family Foundation is kindly supporting the national tour of the exhibition.
NHS Lothian’s Lifelines Scotland project, a dedicated service to promote resilience and wellbeing for emergency responders, has today (25 September) expanded its reach. The service will now also be available to all Scottish Prison Service staff, recognising the challenges and particular stresses that these individuals face through their work.
The Lifelines Scotland project was established in 2016 by NHS Lothian’s specialist trauma service, the Rivers Centre, to provide support to voluntary emergency responders.
In 2020, the project was extended to Scotland’s blue light services and has been working with ambulance, fire and police to embed an understanding of responder resilience and wellbeing at the heart of these organisations.
Gill Moreton, Lifelines Scotland, Project Lead explained: “The NHS Lothian Rivers Centre team has a wealth of experience working with blue light colleagues and we are delighted that we can use this knowledge and expertise to help support other sectors where similarly challenging working environments are experienced.”
In doing their jobs, prison staff face uncertainty, risk, and challenge on a daily basis. Tensions can build in an instant, and it is their professionalism and dedication which is often the tempering factor. It is therefore vital that resources such as Lifelines are available, to help them care for their mental health.
Gill added: “Prison staff can face a range of challenges because of the environment they work in. Their roles can be physically, emotionally and psychologically demanding.
“Ensuring these individuals have the tools available to support their own wellbeing, as well as information should they become unwell is vital to boosting resilience amongst this workforce. I am delighted that Lifelines Scotland will now be available for Scottish Prison Service staff.”
Prison staff are welcomed to the project on national Hidden Heroes Day; an awareness day launched by the Butler Trust to recognise and thank prison, probation, and other Justice sector staff who deliver a critical public service.
The dedicated resource will provide additional support for all prison staff, who work in complex and demanding environments. They are responsible for the care of a largely vulnerable population, who are known to have high rates of trauma and mental ill-health.
Lifelines Scotland is unique in providing a single point of access for all of Scotland’s emergency responders, whether they’re employed, volunteer or have retired, and for their family, friends and other supporters. This access will now be expanded to all staff working within the Scottish Prison Service, with dedicated content available to them.
“Our staff go above and beyond every day, supporting and caring for some of the most vulnerable people in society, and doing their bit in keeping Scotland’s communities safe.
“We recognise the importance of providing wellbeing services appropriate to their specific needs. This resource will provide a valuable tool for supporting their self-care, resilience, and recovery, while also signposting to other wellbeing services that are available to them.”
The Lifelines Scotland project works upstream, taking a preventative, early intervention approach. It provides valuable information to ensure that people have access to support if they become unwell, but its principal focus is on helping people to stay well in the first place.
The Lifelines website is based on the Lifelines 10 Essentials, which recognise that emergency service staff, volunteers and prison service staff are at risk of psychological injury because of their roles, but that injury isn’t inevitable and that there are lots of things that can help to keep people well.
Angela Constance, Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs, Scottish Government said, “The everyday stresses and strains of a job can have an impact on staff.
“Lifelines is exactly that – a lifeline providing resources and tools to help people manage their mental health and resilience when it comes to the physical, emotional and psychological demands of their job.
“I welcome this initiative being made available to all staff in the Scottish Prison Service. It is vital that we keep the people safe, who are keeping our communities safe.”
Inspired by the versatility of Edinburgh’s historic charm, natural surroundings and unique festival spirit, Talonmore is a unique blend of complex and fiery flavours
Talonmore Drinks Company; the Scottish based, family run business established itself in Edinburgh in 2020. Using a mix of rooted and plant-based ingredients, Talonmore can be used to replicate spirit strength drinks in a multitude of non-alcoholic cocktails and beverages.
Talonmore has been among the headlines recently with a £80,000 funding win at Scottish Edge, wholesale deals with the likes of major Scottish wholesaler Inverarity Morton and listings secured across the Montpelier Group – including Edinburgh’s city-centre bars Tigerlily, Indigo Yard and Rabble – as well as a brand-new listing with UK-wide Harvey Nicols and a slot booked at Edinburgh’s Foodies Festival.
Named as 2024 Men’s Health and Good Housekeeping’s best non-alcoholic spirit, the liquid’s versatility is what makes it shine in cocktails. The spirit is 0% ABV and brewed with Scottish water; fired by the spice of ginger and Assam tea it contains key superfoods including prickly pear and hawthorn berry, both with recognised health benefits.
With over 8 million adults in the UK looking to reduce their alcohol intake, Talonmore is designed to shake up the non-alcoholic drinks market by championing the adventurous lifestyle that would normally be sacrificed with traditional alcohol.
Talonmore’s distinctive taste is fired by the spice of ginger and cinnamon whilst complemented with malty notes and fruit sweetness. Inspired by Edinburgh’s festival spirit and history of innovation, Talonmore was created to provide an exceptional alcohol-free drink that can be enjoyed without compromising health, control and taste.
Using brewing methods of manufacture, rather than distilling, Talonmore have developed a unique beverage that ensures flavour is at the forefront, replicating the experience of drinking a dark spirit. Talonmore can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, with a mixer or in a multitude of non-alcoholic cocktails.
In 2022, Talonmore was awarded Silver at the International Wine and Spirits Competition scoring an impressive 92 points out of 100.
Lewis Kennedy, Managing Director at Talonmore Drinks Company said: “Talonmore is all about offering choice. The popularity around alcohol-free serves is seeing a meteoric rise right now.
“We are so proud of our liquid and the versatility it brings to the table. Our new red foiling is designed to catch the eye of consumers looking at the back bar, or equally online, for a satisfying alternative to an alcoholic drink.
“The historic charm of Edinburgh gives our team endless inspiration. You will see key landmarks of the city on our recently updated branding, all which play a part in the story of Talonmore.
“We want to create foundations for sophisticated adventurers who want to celebrate climbing to the peak of a mountain in style, drivers who want to make the most of their road trip or professionals having the perfect serve for a midweek social gathering.”
