Tag: Scottish Government

Holyrood nominates John Swinney as First Minister

John Swinney: “I will be a First Minister for all of Scotland”

The Scottish Parliament has nominated John Swinney as First Minister of Scotland, following the 2026 election.

Addressing members of the Scottish Parliament, Mr Swinney outlined his ambitions for the parliamentary term, including action to tackle the cost of living, improve the NHS and grow the economy to create opportunity across Scotland. He also pledged to work together to deliver progress for Scotland and to meet the challenges facing the country.

Mr Swinney is expected to be formally appointed with a Royal Warrant from His Majesty King Charles III. He will be sworn in at the Court of Session today (Wednesday) , where he will take the Official Oath in front of the Lord President of the Court of Session and other senior judges. 

First Minister John Swinney said: “I have ambitious goals for this Parliamentary session. I want to ease the cost of living crisis, ensure the NHS is protected and easy to access, ensure cohesion in our communities and protect the environment, and grow the economy and create opportunity across our country.

“I believe I can achieve a majority for every ambition I have for this Parliament and I look forward to working with many here to do so. That, of course, includes the question of Scotland’s constitutional future on which I recognise there are profound differences of opinion. Indeed the people have now elected the largest pro-independence majority in the history of devolution.

“I will be a First Minister for all of Scotland. A First Minister that works to bring people together with a strong sense of national purpose. The country I seek to build is a country where everyone feels accepted and able to contribute to our national story.

“I gratefully accept this opportunity to serve as First Minister. It is the greatest privilege and the greatest responsibility of my life. I promise to work every day to repay the trust that the people of Scotland have placed in me.”

First Minister Nomination: Acceptance Speech – gov.scot

Funding boost to help Scotland’s school libraries inspire a new generation of readers

School libraries across Scotland are being invited to bid for a share of £150,000 in Scottish Government funding to deliver innovative projects that inspire reading for pleasure, widen access to books and help children and young people build vital digital skills.

The 2026/27 School Library Improvement Fund (SLIF), administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), will support creative initiatives that widen engagement with reading, foster whole-school reading cultures and help pupils develop the literacy, wellbeing and digital skills needed to thrive in modern life.

SLIF supports projects aligned with the ambitions of Vibrant Libraries, Thriving Schools — the national strategy for school libraries in Scotland. Open to all state-run nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools in Scotland, this year’s fund will prioritise applications focused on:

  • promoting reading for pleasure and developing whole-school reading cultures
  • improving equity of access to books, libraries and reading experiences
  • strengthening digital and information literacy, and
  • supporting wellbeing, creativity and partnership working to widen engagement with reading

Projects funded through previous rounds of SLIF have demonstrated the powerful role school libraries play in supporting attainment, confidence, inclusion and wellbeing. From transforming unused spaces into vibrant reading hubs to creating intergenerational storytelling projects, digital media initiatives and community reading programmes, SLIC is encouraging schools and library services to submit bold, creative ideas that reflect the needs and aspirations of their local communities.

Last year 17 trailblazing projects were awarded a share of the SLIF. Successful initiatives included inclusive reading projects using assistive technology in Aberdeen, podcasting and digital storytelling programmes in Renfrewshire, a football-inspired emotional literacy project in East Renfrewshire delivered in partnership with Police Scotland, and large-scale family and community reading initiatives spanning schools in Inverclyde, the Highlands and East Lothian.

Other funded initiatives explored themes including myths and legends and empathy through reading, while a range of projects also focused on digital literacy and accessibility to ensure every child can experience the joy of reading.

Alison Nolan, chief executive of SLIC, said: “The School Library Improvement Fund continues to highlight the innovation and ambition within school libraries across the country.

“Every year, we see inspiring projects that make a tangible difference, helping children and young people discover a love of reading, build confidence, strengthen digital skills and feel more connected to their school communities.

“This year’s priorities place reading and equitable access at the heart of the programme, while also recognising the ever-growing importance of wellbeing, creativity and digital literacy. We are encouraging schools and library staff to think boldly about what their library can achieve and to develop ideas that deliver real impact for learners and their families.”

Schools can submit either individual or collaborative applications, with SLIC accepting up to two individual applications per local authority and an unlimited number of collaborative applications, helping ensure opportunities are shared fairly across Scotland.

The School Library Improvement Fund 2026-27 is now open. Applications will close at 12pm on 8 June 2026. To find out more and apply, visit: 

The School Library Improvement Fund – The Scottish Library and Information Council.

Gilded Balloon announce Graham Norton Live on Stage at the Fringe

Graham Norton Live on Stage at the Edinburgh Fringe with his podcast ‘Wanging On’ with Maria McErlane

WANGING ON LIVE AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE AT THE KINGS THEATRE

On sale on Wednesday 29th April at 11 am

https://tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk/event/14:6792

WANGING ON LIVE

KINGS THEATRE

7 August 2026

Gilded Balloon are delighted to present Wanging On LIVE at the Kings theatre this August, which sees the return to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe of globally recognised comedian, author and television presenter, Graham Norton alongside his friend, podcast co-host and fellow Fringe stalwart, Maria McErlane, to host their podcast, Wanging On, live on stage for the first time.

Produced by Platform Media, Wanging On is the weekly podcast that reunites Graham Norton with his dear friend Maria McErlane to dish out average advice and so-so solutions to your everyday dilemmas.

Together Graham and Maria do their level best to tackle office politics, friendship tensions, unruly pets, neighbourly disputes and family bust-ups. Plus, the ‘Wangers’ wade in with their nuggets of wisdom too. Each week, Graham and Maria also share the latest in their life – be it bikes, books, haircuts or hangover cures – and they pass judgement on your most peculiar proclivities in Am I Weird?

Wanging On is available to watch and listen on Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. This live version is a Gilded Balloon presentation by arrangement with YMU and Platform Media.

Staged in Edinburgh’s iconic King’s Theatre after its highly anticipated two-year renovation project, Gilded Balloon are delighted to be one of the first shows presented in the ‘new’ King’s Theatre with Wanging On Live on the official opening day of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2026.

“We can’t wait to take the podcast from studio to stage at the Edinburgh Fringe, armed with decades of friendship, sharp observations, and absolutely no expertise. Expect audience dilemmas, questionable judgement in Am I Weird?, and the Wangers in the room… so anything could happen” said Graham Norton & Maria McErlane.

Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors at Gilded Balloon, said: “We couldn’t be more excited to have Graham Norton as part of our Fringe programme as he continues to support the festival attending shows regularly each year.

“We were lucky enough to have Graham compere the Final of Gilded Balloon’s comedy competition for newcomers, So You Think You’re Funny? regularly in the 90s and we are delighted to see him back at the Fringe once again.

“And not to mention, lovely Maria McErlane, a Gilded Balloon pal from the 90s and a perfect partner to Graham in this special version of their podcast.”

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New screening for rare condition in newborns

Test could enable earlier treatment and improve life chances

Scotland is now the first part of the UK to screen newborn babies for a rare condition which causes progressive muscle wastage.

The test for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), which can affect movement, breathing and swallowing, began this week. Previously, people affected will have been tested once they displayed symptoms.

The Scottish Government and pharmaceutical company Novartis are funding a two-year evaluation to assess how well SMA screening can detect the condition earlier, allowing babies to receive treatment as soon as possible.

On average, three to four babies per year are born with SMA in Scotland.

All parents are now offered SMA screening for their newborns through the existing blood spot test, which is taken around day four after birth.

Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “Scotland is the first country in the UK to start the evaluation of SMA screening.

“SMA can have devastating implications for babies and their families, and this investment demonstrates our commitment to early detection through our screening programme.

“I thank SMA UK and local campaigners who have worked so hard to highlight this issue and Novartis for its funding. By detecting SMA before symptoms develop, screening could allow earlier treatment which could be life-changing and help secure the best possible care and support for babies and families.”

SMA UK charity CEO Giles Lomax said: “This milestone represents an important step forward for the SMA community.

“With all three treatments now routinely available through NHS Scotland alongside newborn screening, the future for anyone diagnosed with SMA is very different compared to their peers who were diagnosed symptomatically.

“These babies will now have the opportunity to grow up without life-long health care needs and the complexity and challenges of living with SMA.

“I would like to thank the Scottish Government, the numerous clinicians and the Scottish Muscle Network as well as Novartis for their on-going support to drive change.”

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Consultant Clinical Scientist and Director of the screening laboratory Dr Sarah Smith said: “We are working closely with the UK National Screening Committee and other UK laboratories to assess the screen in a real‑life setting.

“Our staff have worked tirelessly to begin screening as quickly as possible so we can start to understand the impact that earlier treatment may have on babies born with this condition.” 

UK and Ireland Chief Medical Officer at Novartis Rob Hastings said: “We are delighted that Scotland has become the first nation in the UK to introduce newborn screening for SMA, helping ensure families benefit from timely diagnosis.

“This programme marks a significant step forward in early detection and intervention, giving babies the chance to receive the care they need as soon as possible.

“Early identification of SMA can make a meaningful difference to children and their families, and we are confident Scotland’s participation will provide the evidence needed to make SMA a long term screening programme.”

Scottish Director of Screening Dr Tasmin Sommerfield said: “I am delighted that Scotland is following the advice of the UK National Screening Committee and commencing this in-service evaluation of SMA screening.

“It will allow babies with SMA to receive the best care and treatment as soon as possible.”

The Scottish Government provided funding of £95,000 towards the SMA screening evaluation, with Novartis providing £435,400.

LifeCare secures funding for Green Energy project at Community Hub

We’re delighted to share that LifeCare has successfully secured funding and installed a solar photovoltaic (PV) system at our much-loved community Hub in Stockbridge.

This exciting project, funded by the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES), will allow us to generate clean, renewable energy on-site, helping to significantly reduce our energy costs and carbon footprint.

With over 47,000 visits to the Hub each year, this investment will have a lasting impact, not only on our building, but on the thousands of people who rely on our services.

Lowering our energy bills will allow us to reinvest more into what matters most: supporting local older people – including those living with dementia and those experiencing loneliness and social isolation – while continuing to deliver a wide range of accessible activities that bring people of all ages from within the local community together.

The funding has also enabled us to install battery storage, meaning we can store and use more of the energy we generate, further improving efficiency and resilience against rising energy costs.

Claire Montgomery, Communications and Fundraising Manager at LifeCare Edinburgh said: “We’re incredibly grateful to CARES for making this project possible, and to Culbertson Renewables Ltd for the fantastic work they did fitting the panels at The LifeCare Centre.

“This funding is not only helping us reduce our environmental impact, but it also means we can direct more resources into supporting older people across our community. It’s a win for both sustainability, and the people we’re here to support.”

This exciting project marks a key step in our commitment to sustainability and to supporting Scotland’s journey to net zero, demonstrating how community organisations can lead the way in tackling climate change while continuing to deliver vital frontline services.

We look forward to sharing the impact of this project and using this opportunity to raise awareness of renewable energy across our community.

LifeCare secures funding for Green Energy project at much-loved Community Hub

Domestic implications of Middle East conflict for Scotland

Resilience Room meets to discuss impacts on goods and services

The Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR) met last night (Tuesday 31st March) to consider the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on Scotland’s people and businesses.

The meeting included discussion on the potential impacts on the supply and price of various goods and services, including energy, food and fuel.

It was chaired by First Minister John Swinney and attended by the Deputy First Minister, the Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, the Cabinet Secretary for Justice & Home Affairs, the Cabinet Secretary for Health & Social Care, the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, the Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture, the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government, the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands and the Minister for Parliamentary Business and Veterans.

The First Minister said: “The impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on people and businesses in Scotland is becoming more significant by the day.

“As concerns continue to grow across our communities and sectors, I convened SGoRR to assess the situation in detail and to consider what further engagement, support, or actions may be required from the Scottish Government, our partners and others in the days and weeks ahead.”

Improved access to social care

New fund will ensure people have a say

  • New funding for independent advocates will help people in need navigate the social care system

New funding for independent advocates will help people in need navigate the social care system. The £500,000 Scottish Government Independent Advocacy Social Care Fund will ensure people can have a say in their care and advocate for their rights.

Twelve new projects will support people with, for instance, chronic health conditions or disabilities, neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s, or older people in residential care and unpaid carers.

A new National Care Service Charter of Rights will help people better understand existing rights, including being treated without discrimination and protection from harm when accessing social care.

Anne’s Law, which comes into force on 31 March, will enshrine the right of care home residents to contact with family and friends.

This includes choosing at least one person who can act as an essential care supporter, with a legal presumption that suspending their visits is likely to seriously harm the health and wellbeing of a person in a care home.

Social Care Minister Tom Arthur visited Partners in Advocacy in Edinburgh to meet staff, carers and advocates. He said: “We are proud to support people across Scotland through this new fund and Charter to access the right support and have their voices heard.

“We know the system can sometimes be complex and difficult to navigate so this is about ensuring there is someone to advocate for some of the most vulnerable people in our community. They deserve to have their voices heard and their wishes acted upon.

“The charter strengthens this commitment by clearly setting out people’s rights and expectations for social care, social work and community health.”

Partners in Advocacy Chief Executive Officer Jess Wade said: “We are delighted to be part of the Independent Advocacy Social Care Fund, which will ensure more people can access independent advocacy, better understand their rights and have their voices heard.”

A code of practice to support implementation of Anne’s Law regulations was published this week, developed in collaboration with those with lived experience and care homes:

Anne’s Law Code of Practice The Care Home Services (Visits to and by Care Home

Human Trafficking and Exploitation: Have Your Say

Human trafficking is a serious crime that causes lasting harm. Ensuring victims receive the right support is essential.

A new consultation seeks views on whether the guidance on support available to adult victims is clear, practical, and helpful.

https://bit.ly/47PwS7m

scottish-government-guidance-support-adult-victims-trafficking-exploitation-consultationDownload

£5.07m community path fund leaves lasting legacy across Scotland

Ian Findlay Path Fund supports projects in Edinburgh

COMMUNITIES across Scotland are celebrating the impact of a £5.07 million investment in local path networks. Between 2022 and 2026, the Ian Findlay Path Fund, funded by the Scottish Government and administered by Walking Scotland, helped 62 projects across 17 council areas.  

The fund has supported eight path projects in Edinburgh over four years, including the Dalmeny Path Development, the Coalie Park Improvement Project and the Gyle Park Path Network Upgrade 2023. 

These initiatives have supported upgrades to path surfaces, improved accessibility and strengthened connections between local communities and green spaces, making it easier for residents to walk and wheel throughout the city. 

Across Scotland, communities have upgraded more than 69 kilometres of path surfaces, created over 16 kilometres of new link paths and improved almost 29 kilometres of routes connecting neighbourhoods with local services and green spaces. 

Projects have also removed 28 accessibility barriers, installed 92 seats along community paths and improved lighting, drainage and signage, helping to make routes safer and easier to use throughout the year. 

Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer at Walking Scotland, said: “The Ian Findlay Path Fund has left a lasting legacy that people in Edinburgh will benefit from for years to come. These practical improvements make a real difference to people’s daily lives.  

“When paths are safe, well-maintained and easy to use, people walk and wheel more. That benefits their health and their communities.

“It also helps the environment, as more people choosing to walk and wheel reduces the number of car journeys and carbon emissions.” 

The fund was established in memory of Ian Findlay CBE, former Chief Executive Officer of Walking Scotland, whose work championed the importance of accessible paths and everyday walking and wheeling in building healthier, more connected communities across Scotland. 

Kevin added, “The Ian Findlay Path Fund was the perfect way for all of us to pay tribute to Ian. I’m delighted that we can now look back and celebrate its many achievements.” 

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said, “The Ian Findlay Path Fund has been an important part of our commitment to supporting communities across Scotland to create safe, accessible and attractive places to walk, wheel and enjoy their local environments.

“Since its inception, this fund has empowered local groups, who understand the needs and character of their own areas, to lead improvements that make every day active travel easier and more appealing. 

“As the fund comes to a close this month, I want to pay tribute to the volunteers, community organisations and partners who have turned small scale, grassroots ideas into meaningful local change.

“Their work embodies the spirit of community led development and complements our wider national ambition to make walking, wheeling and cycling the natural choice for shorter journeys. 

“While this chapter concludes this year, the legacy of the Ian Findlay Path Fund will continue in the strengthened connections, safer routes and more vibrant places it has helped deliver across Scotland.” 

To find out more about the work of Walking Scotland, please visit: 

https://walkingscotland.org.uk/