Tag: Scottish Government

Tenement-focused charities urge immediate action on owners’ associations legislation following release of Law Commission report

Under One Roof and Built Environment Forum Scotland (BEFS) are calling on the Scottish Government to act quickly to enact legislation on compulsory owners’ associations, following the release of the Scottish Law Commission’s Report on Tenement law: compulsory owners’ association.

Under One Roof and BEFS have welcomed the report, commissioned by the Scottish Government, as a crucial step forwards in improving the condition of tenement buildings, which make up around 37% of all housing stock in Scotland and are in a significant state of disrepair.

Owners’ associations, which currently exist in some tenement buildings as voluntary bodies with no legal standing, are critical to ensuring flat owners have the communication, structures, and processes in place to organise repairs in common areas of their building, such as the stair and roof.

The report and draft legislation, proposed by the Law Commission, would in effect create an owners’ association in every tenement building, and place a duty on owners:

  1. to appoint a manager for the association,
  2. hold at least one annual meeting;
  3. approve a repair budget,
  4. ensure building information is provided to property registers.

The report also calls for the creation of a bespoke form on tenement incorporation, which would allow owners to sign repair contracts on behalf of the association, rather than placing liability on one or two owners, as currently exists.

Mike Heffron, Chief Executive of Under One Roof, said: “The condition of Scotland’s tenements is a ticking timebomb.

“This year, as is the case every year in Scotland, there are far too many examples of stonework crashing to the streets from crumbling tenements, or flat owners being displaced due to unstable buildings.

“The introduction of owners’ associations in every building is not a silver bullet for fixing Scotland’s tenement stock; it’s a starting gun. The legislation will make it easier for owners of tenement flats to begin overdue conversations, look closely at what needs to be done and how quickly, and start long overdue repair, maintenance, and retrofit works.  

“Political parties and the Scottish Government must work quickly to ensure legislation making owners’ associations in every tenement becomes a reality, as well as move quickly to ensure buildings are inspected every five years, and every tenement in Scotland has a building reserve fund.”

Hazel Johnson, Director of BEFS, said: “Tenement maintenance is a pressing issue across Scotland.

“The connection between Net Zero goals and building condition is indisputable; regular maintenance, repair and wider focus on improving the fabric of homes including tenements, so they are more able to transition to clean heat, is crucial.

“Without this starting point, actions will not result in the energy reductions expected, failing to improve building performance, negatively impacting on occupant health, and failing to meet fuel poverty aims.

“It is within this context that we call for joined up action for tenements in Scotland. Well maintained tenements can deliver for Scotland’s housing needs, net zero, economy, wellbeing, and more – for many years to come. The establishment of owners’ associations is an important milestone on this journey.”

Gillian Campbell, Director of Existing Homes Alliance said: “The publication of this report and draft Bill is a significant milestone on the road to improving the condition of Scotland’s tenements and ensuring flat owners are not left behind in the transition to clean heating and energy efficient homes. 

“The proposed legislation is part of a much-needed framework that will help flat owners to work together to maintain their homes, making them more energy efficient and moving towards clean heating.   

“The introduction of owners associations for flats has support across the Scottish Parliament and the next Scottish Government now has an opportunity to take this forward, helping to ensure that all flat owners can benefit from living in warm, healthy, affordable to heat homes, with clean heating systems.”

Funding secures theatre’s future

Cumbernauld Theatre Trust receives £150,000

The Cumbernauld Theatre Trust, in North Lanarkshire, has been awarded £150,000 transition funding from the Scottish Government to help secure its future.

The funding will ensure the future of the Theatre as a going concern, so that it can continue its cultural programme and community work, while taking steps to enhance its financial sustainability and operations.

Cumbernauld Theatre Trust was the only was the only organisation to lose regular funding when Creative Scotland announced successful bidders for Multi-Year Funding in January, as a result of its application which was unsuccessful.

A record number of cultural organisations were successful in applying for Multi-Year Funding, following a £34 million increase for culture in the arts in the 2025-26 Scottish Budget. Over half of these organisations were awarded multi-year funding for the first time, and all successful applicants who previously received regular funding got a significant uplift.

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “The Cumbernauld Theatre is an important cultural asset for North Lanarkshire and the wider culture sector in Scotland.

“As a result of its failure to secure Multi-Year Funding, the Trust faced a critical funding gap for 2026-27, which would have required the Trust to consult on redundancies.

“Given the Theatre’s significance to the community and in order to protect the sector-specific skills it provides employment opportunities for, the Scottish Government has agreed to support the Trust with £150,000 in grant funding over 2026-27, and a potential further £150,000 in 2027-28 – subject to the Trust demonstrating its sustainability issues are being resolved.

“This funding should enable the Trust to move beyond a challenging period and take the necessary steps to secure Cumbernauld Theatre’s future.”

Alan Caldwell, Chair of Cumbernauld Theatre Trust said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson and the Scottish Government for our constructive conversations over the last few months and today’s announcement of its strategic investment in the future of this important cultural organisation.

“Their grant of £150,000 in 2026/27 and a potential further award in 2027/28 allows the Trust time to plan for a long-term sustainable future, while continuing to deliver its valuable work for residents in an area of Scotland which is under-served in terms of cultural and community opportunities.”

Creative Scotland has also agreed to give Cumbernauld Theatre Trust £99,557 in support of a programme of community engagement and work celebrating the town’s anniversary over the course of 2026.

BACKGROUND:

Multi-Year Funding Outcome Announcement | Creative Scotland

myf—organisations-awarded-funding-updated-february-2025Download

Funding to support up to 460 new jobs at Grangemouth

Supporting future Grangemouth industries

Up to 460 new jobs are expected to be created at the Grangemouth industrial cluster and surrounding area, thanks to £8.5 million new Scottish Government funding.

Following the allocation of £1.5 million of Scottish Government’s Grangemouth Just Transition Funding to Scottish biotech company MiAlgae, up to 310 jobs are expected to be created over the next five years.

The company is developing fish-free omega-3 out of algae by repurposing whisky byproducts, saving an estimated 30 tonnes of fish for every tonne of algae produced and reducing the impact of over-fishing on fish stocks.  

The funding will be match funded by the UK Government, following calls from the Scottish Government, and will be administered by Scottish Enterprise. It is also expected to deliver an additional £53 million into the Scottish economy over the same period.  

Meanwhile, up to 149 roles will be created in Grangemouth at Celtic Renewables, by 2030  following the allocation of £6.23 million to support pre-construction work for a new bio-refinery at Grangemouth to support the manufacture of ‘green’ chemicals. This is where waste from the food, drink and farming sector is converted into acetone, butanol and ethanol – chemicals found in everyday items such as nail varnish remover and cleaning products.

The technology was identified by Project Willow as one of the viable alternative pathways which could successfully be deployed within the Grangemouth industrial cluster.

A further £0.6 million will be awarded to Scottish Enterprise to support key planning and infrastructure activity at the site to ensure the area is a more attractive and shovel ready location for new investment.

All three projects are being supported through the Grangemouth Just Transition Fund and are designed to encourage further investment in the site by demonstrating its long-term potential as a leader in green energy and sustainable manufacturing, and support initiatives that increase the prosperity of those who live and work there.

An additional £150,000 will be awarded to CVS Falkirk over the next three years through the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal for the continuation of one role to help ensure community voices are present as part of the delivery of the Grangemouth Just Transition Plan.

The announcements come ahead of a statement to Parliament by Energy Secretary Gillian Martin on progressing a just transition at Grangemouth.

Ms Martin said: “The Scottish Government will continue to do all that it can to support and promote local opportunities, jobs and growth, in the Grangemouth area.

“Today’s announcement will help to support the creation of up to 460 roles directly and across the supply chain in Scotland, and help to highlight the wide range of viable alternatives for Grangemouth. They demonstrate that a long term, new industrial future at Grangemouth is achievable, and will be vital to support the local workforce and community.

“This funding is only the start of the Scottish Government’s support to help safeguard Grangemouth’s role as a leading industrial cluster, and ensure the site continues to support our economy through new, green investment opportunities.”

Jan Robertson, Director of Grangemouth Transition at Scottish Enterprise, said: “It’s wonderful to see this support going to two companies we’ve worked with intensively since their inceptions.

“Seeing MiAlgae break ground on its first commercial-scale plant, as well as announcing the latest stage in Celtic Renewables’ growth journey, are causes to celebrate. Grangemouth is the perfect location for innovative Scottish scale-ups to grow, creating high-quality jobs and supply chain opportunities for the whole community.

“We also welcome the additional £0.6 million Scottish Government funding to accelerate our important infrastructure improvement work at Grangemouth, which will unlock further investment at the cluster and support the creation of new jobs.”

Doctors shape vision for future medical workforce

Report sets out views on how the profession could change over next two decades.

A new report exploring views on how Scotland’s medical workforce might need to evolve over the next 15 to 20 years has been published.

The Future Medical Workforce report follows six months of extensive engagement with the profession, and we have listened to over 2,000 doctors through a national survey and 40 focus groups.

Those who took part shared the privilege and joy they feel in caring for patients but also highlighted significant pressures in balancing service delivery with training and managing increasing workloads.

The report emphasises that any plans for the future should take into consideration the importance of ensuring doctors feel valued and inspired by their profession and able to sustain fulfilling careers.

Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “Our doctors are the backbone of our NHS and it’s vital that we plan now to ensure we have the right workforce in place to meet Scotland’s healthcare needs in the decades ahead.

“I have been clear of the need to listen closely to doctors at every career stage, and I am grateful for their honesty and insight which is invaluable in shaping our next steps.

“Scotland’s population is changing. People are living longer and many of the cases we see in hospitals are now more complex. The decisions we make today will shape our future medical workforce and we are committed to empowering our doctors with positive working environments, manageable workloads and the resources they need to continue providing excellent care.

“We have invested a record £21.7 billion in our NHS this year and reached a historic deal with GPs by investing £531 million over the next three years.

“The next phase of this project will turn these insights into action, working in partnership with the profession to deliver meaningful change that supports the medical workforce and improves care for patients across Scotland.”

Professor Andrew Elder, Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges and Faculties in Scotland (Scottish Academy) said: “The Scottish Academy welcomes the publication of the report and commends all those involved for achieving a high level of engagement with doctors at all stages of their careers.

“Whilst multi-professional working is key to delivering high-quality care, we welcome the clear focus on the role of the doctor, and the report accurately and honestly reflects both the hopes and detailed concerns of doctors and underlines the central contribution they must continue to make to patient care.

“We are committed to working together with the Scottish Government to ensure that the key recommendations of this work are taken forward in a fluent and effective manner.”

Professor Pushpinder Mangat, Medical Director and Director of Education and Standards at the General Medical Council, said: “This report reflects how the medical workforce is changing, and how doctors’ education, training and development will need to change and adapt in the future.

“That aligns with our own ambitions, which include a comprehensive review of medical education and training to ensure we build education programmes that provide medical professionals with flexible, fair and innovative learning, and that equip them with the skills they need to provide the best patient care.”

Future Medical Workforce Project report

Scotland’s Resilience committee meets to discuss winter flu

Hospital admissions rise as cases continue to increase

Justice Secretary Angela Constance chaired a resilience meeting yesterday to discuss the rising number of flu cases and the subsequent pressure on health services.

She was joined by the Health Secretary, the Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Gregor Smith and Public Health Scotland Head of Health Protection (infection Services) Jim McMenamin.

Flu cases have risen 24% in the past week, with hospital admissions up 15%. Ministers heard of measures being taken to alleviate the pressures on health and social care services and ensure they have enough resources.

This includes additional support to NHS24 and the Scottish Ambulance Service, as well as a £20 million investment to support social care and front door pressures to improve flow.

Yesterday, the Health Secretary Neil Gray convened a meeting of the Winter Pressures Oversight Group to ensure health and care services have the resources needed during peak demand. He said: “We are seeing an increase in flu cases earlier this year and we know flu hits harder for some people, especially the most vulnerable members of our communities.

“Vaccination remains the best protection against the virus and I encourage everyone who is eligible to come forward for theirs if they have not yet done so.

“New evidence from Public Health Scotland and early evidence from UKHSA shows that this year’s vaccine does a good job of preventing hospital admissions for the strains currently circulating.

“As of 7 December, over 1.2 million adult flu vaccines have been delivered – over 97,000 more than this point last winter. In addition, more than 470,000 children have had their vaccine, bringing the total number of flu vaccinations delivered this season to over 1.7 million.

“But as flu typically peaks in late December or January, driven by the socialising we do over Christmas and New Year, we are urging those eligible to get vaccinated before the holidays and help protect each other and our NHS this winter.

“We are taking a range of measures to ensure our health service is as resilient as possible over the next few months £20 million has been allocated for health board initiatives to increase social care capacity and relieve pressure on acute services.”

New evidence from Public Health Scotland published yesterday (Dec 11) shows that the flu vaccine provides important protection against severe illness.

PHS found so far this winter, children in Scotland are 78% less likely to be admitted to hospital with flu if vaccinated; with vaccinated adults in Scotland aged 65 and over 37% less likely to be hospitalised. 

As of 7 December, over 1.2 million adult flu vaccines have been delivered – over 97,000 more than this point last winter. In addition, more than 470,000 children have had their vaccine, bringing the total number of flu vaccinations delivered this season to over 1.7 million. 

Healthcare support over winter – gov.scot

Right care right place | NHS inform

Winter vaccines | NHS inform

Cladding levy Bill carries significant risk to Scotland’s housing market, says Holyrood’s Finance Committee

A Bill to raise funds towards Scotland’s cladding remediation programme carries “significant risk” to the housing market, says a parliamentary report published today.

Holyrood’s Finance and Public Administration Committee says it is “unconvinced” that the Scottish Government has fully considered the implications of the Bill on the nation’s ‘housing emergency’.

The committee has decided, therefore, to make no recommendation on the general principles of the Bill – a first time for this committee – and says it hopes the government will respond positively to its findings.

The committee is also calling on the government to carry out market ‘sensitivity analysis’ prior to deciding levy rates and reliefs, and to monitor the effect of the new tax on the housing sector.

Finance and Public Administration Committee convener Kenneth Gibson said: “Our committee understands the Scottish Government’s intent behind this Bill, but we believe the introduction of the levy carries significant risk.

“We have concerns regarding its potential impact on the housing market, and on the delivery of houses in areas where the viability of building sites is already challenging.

“We are unconvinced that the government has fully considered the implications for its self-declared housing emergency when designing the policy approach for this levy. We also believe the policy design has been focussed on the arbitrary figure that the levy could raise, and not sufficiently focussed on developing a good, well-structured levy that is sustainable.

“On the basis of the evidence received, our committee makes no recommendation on the general principles of the Bill. We trust that the Scottish Government will respond positively to our recommendations to inform further discussion of the general principles during the Stage 1 debate in the chamber in January 2026.”

Calling for regular reports on the housing market impact, Mr Gibson said: “Our committee recommends that the reporting requirements in the Bill be strengthened, so that the government is required to report every three years on how the levy is working. That report should include an assessment of how the levy is impacting the Scottish housing market in practice.” 

Mr Gibson went on: “Our committee does not consider the levy to be fully reflective of the sensitivities of the housing market in Scotland.

“We therefore recommend the government undertakes a sensitivity analysis, to assess in more detail, the impact of the levy on the housing market – in particular on rural sites and on SME developers.

“The analysis should be published in time to inform the government’s decisions in setting levy rates and, where applicable, any reliefs, through secondary legislation.”

Other findings and recommendations:

  • there is a strong case for exempting remote rural areas from the scope of the levy. While recognising the challenges in developing an appropriate definition for remote rural developments, this should not be a barrier to introducing this important exemption.
  • the Bill should be amended to include a sunset clause to provide an opportunity to robustly review after 15 years how the levy is operating and for the Scottish Parliament to then decide whether the law should remain in place. This, we consider, should provide much-needed reassurance to the industry that the levy is not intended to become a permanent tax on housebuilding.
  • the committee is concerned about the potential for the levy to contribute to the loss of historic buildings in Scotland. It recommends the government considers a targeted broadening of this exemption for conversions, which will help to protect historic buildings that may otherwise remain abandoned.

Minister Ivan McKee announced in November 2025 that introduction of the levy rates will be pushed back by more than a year to April 2028.

The Stage 1 debate on the Building Safety Levy (Scotland) Bill is expected to be debated by Parliament in the new year.

Read the Building Safety Levy (Scotland) Bill

Read the committee report

Scotland’s first helpline for women experiencing economic abuse

Purple Phone helpline launched

Scotland’s first confidential helpline for victims and survivors of economic abuse has been launched by Financially Included, an organisation that supports women to recover from a controlling and often hidden form of gender-based violence.

As the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence campaign draws to a close, Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan visited East Renfrewshire to find out more about Financially Included’s Purple Phone Helpline, part of a new economic abuse pilot project supported by Scottish Government funding.

The helpline provides advice, emotional support and financial guidance to women experiencing economic abuse. She heard about the help they gave to one woman, Caroline*. After leaving an abusive relationship, the mother of four was supported by Financially Included to claim a range of benefits and payments she was entitled to, helping Caroline to work towards financial independence and a stable future for her family.

Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “Financially Included’s pioneering Purple Phone Helpline will be an invaluable source of advice to women across Scotland who need help to escape or recover from economic abuse.

“Tackling violence against women and girls in all its forms is one of our key priorities, with investment of £21.6 million this year through the Delivering Equally Safe fund, to support specialist services like Financially Included, making a real difference to women’s lives.”

Councillor Katie Pragnell, Chair of East Renfrewshire Integration Joint Board said: “We’re proud to lead the way in collaboration with other local organisations as part of the East Renfrewshire Violence against Women and Girls Partnership and we are committed to making sure no one faces abuse alone.

“This helpline is more than a phone number – it’s a lifeline. It means women and children trapped by financial control now have somewhere to turn.”  

Amber Cully, Project Manager at Financially Included, said: “We are delighted to be entering into this partnership in East Renfrewshire to build on the vital work in tackling economic abuse and to strengthen specialist support for women affected across the area.

“Through this partnership, we will deliver training on recognising and responding to economic abuse, provide a second-tier advice service for frontline workers supporting victim-survivors.

“Using additional funding from the Scottish Government this year, we are expanding our work nationally, with East Renfrewshire the first area to commit to working with us in this way.

“Our vision is to grow this into a Scotland-wide network, ensuring a consistent, sustainable and trauma-informed response for victim-survivors across the country.” 

The confidential and free Purple Phone Helpline number is 0343 841 0132. It is currently open Monday 16:30–19:30, Wednesday 10:00–13:00 and Thursday 13:30–16:30. Translators are available on request.

Financially Included is a pilot project led by Greater Easterhouse Money Advice Project in partnership with Glasgow Violence Against Women Partnership.

The project focuses on improving the provision of money advice across gender-based violence sectors through training and toolkit resources.

Caroline’s story

Caroline* was referred to Financially Included by Glasgow Women’s Aid two years ago. A survivor of sustained physical, emotional and economic abuse, Caroline is a single mother of four children, two of whom have since been diagnosed with autism. When she first came to the service, Caroline was a full-time student, working part-time and managing multiple health conditions linked to years of trauma and injury.

Despite the abuse, Caroline remained financially tied to the perpetrator through a jointly owned home, shared benefits and mounting debt. She faced benefit complications, mortgage insecurity, damaged credit, and serious housing disrepair including damp and mould. Her situation was made even more complex by ongoing stalking, threats from her former partner, and significant barriers to accessing affordable legal support.

Financially Included provided intensive, trauma-informed support across benefits, housing, debt and energy advice and supported Caroline to secure disability benefits for herself and her son, challenged incorrect benefit decisions and assisted with a Criminal Injuries Compensation application.

They also provided emotional support to Caroline while she completed these processes, acknowledging the trauma involved in revisiting her experiences. She was also supported with council tax exemption, rising mortgage pressures, household debt directly linked to economic abuse, and energy advice to address unsafe living conditions.

While Caroline continues to face serious challenges around housing security and legal protections, she now feels more confident managing as a single parent and navigating complex systems. She continues to receive multi-agency support, including from Women’s Aid, schools, health services and her employer.

*Name changed to protect identity.

Delivering educational improvements

Attainment, attendance and teacher numbers rise

The number of pupils reaching expected levels of literacy and numeracy in Scotland’s schools is at the highest level on record, latest statistics show.

In primary schools, expected levels in literacy have increased to the highest level ever (74.5%), while for numeracy the figure of 80.3% is the same as last year’s record high. In secondary, the proportions of S3s reaching the expected level in literacy (89.8%) and numeracy (90.9%) are also the highest on record, according to the Achievement  of Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) Levels 2024-25.

The last year has also seen a narrowing of the poverty-related attainment gap to a record low at all levels.

Meanwhile, attendance rates increased in schools to 91% in 2024-25, up from 90.3% the previous year, while absences, both authorised and unauthorised, are down, according to separate figures published today.

Teacher numbers have also increased nationally in 2025, with the pupil-teacher ratio improving, while average primary class sizes also reduced, according to the latest Pupil and Teacher Characteristics 2025.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “The Scottish Government has been determined to drive forward educational improvements in Scotland’s schools and these statistics show clear progress is being made across several measures.

“Attainment levels are at record highs in literacy and numeracy following Scottish Government investment of £1.75 billion in the Scottish Attainment Challenge over the past decade – aimed at improving outcomes for children and young people impacted by poverty.

“We know that better engagement leads to better outcomes, so it’s hugely encouraging to see the improvement in attendance and a fall in absences, including a noticeable reduction in persistent absence levels, after the work being done to address this since the pandemic.

“The rise in teacher numbers reflects our investment in the workforce, which means that Scotland continues to have the lowest pupil-teacher ratio and the best paid teachers in the UK.

“We recognise there is more work needed to return these numbers to their 2023 levels and we will continue to work with councils towards this.

“This evidence further underlines the strong recovery we are seeing in schools following the pandemic, after this year’s national exam results showed the poverty-related attainment gap narrowing at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher levels.

“It is testament to the hard work of pupils, teachers and staff in schools and I am committed to working with them to deliver further improvements.” 

The Educational Institute of Scotland has noted yesterday’s flurry of education statistic releases from the Scottish Government, and highlighted that the figures confirm the Scottish Government’s failure to meet its commitments on the employment of additional teachers as a means to tackle excessive teacher workload.

Commenting, EIS General Secretary Andrea Bradley said, “Scottish Government education statistics releases are increasingly like buses – you wait a long time for one to turn up, then five arrive all at once.

If this is an attempt to bury any bad news in a quagmire of statistics, it does not appear to be a successful tactic.

The figures released today confirm that the Scottish Government has absolutely failed in the delivery of their 2021 manifesto commitment to recruit 3,500 additional teachers into Scotland’s schools during the term of this parliament – we now have almost a thousand fewer teachers than when the pledge was made, so we are more than 4,000 teachers down on the level that was promised in that 2021 manifesto commitment.”

Ms Bradley continued, “The Scottish Government’s associated pledge to reduce teachers’ class contact time, supported by the recruitment of the additional teachers, was a clear recognition of the need to tackle excessive teacher workload in our schools.

“The failure of government and local authorities to recruit additional teachers, and the failure to deliver any meaningful progress on the commitment to reduce teachers’ class contact time, has led to the current workload dispute.

“The EIS is currently running a statutory industrial action ballot over these failures, and encourages all our members to use their vote in this important ballot and to vote Yes to both strike action and action short of strike.

“We must send a very clear message to the Scottish Government, and also to local authorities, that class contact time must be reduced, as promised, as a means to reducing excessive teacher workload.”

Ms Bradley added, “Compounding this, the high level of employment precarity for newly qualified and recently qualified teachers is a national scandal, with large numbers of new teachers offered only unstable short-term contracts, if they are fortunate enough to be offered teaching work at all.

“Scotland needs more teachers in our schools, to deliver an enhanced learning experience for students, to help reduce excessive teacher workload by delivering the Scottish Government’s commitment to lower teachers’ class contact time, and to ensure that the increasingly diverse learning needs of all students can be met.

“There are now 43% of pupils in our schools with an identified Additional Support Need, and this huge increase has not been matched by an increase in resource to meet those needs. We desperately need more teachers in our schools.”

Ms Bradley concluded, “The newly and recently qualified teachers are available for permanent employment to help to address all of these issues , but they are not being offered secure teaching jobs, with the result that many will either look to other countries for employment or opt, reluctantly, to leave teaching entirely and pursue other career options.

“It shouldn’t be this way, and it doesn’t have to be this way – the Scottish Government and local authorities must ensure that many, many more newly and recently qualified teachers are employed in Scotland’s schools.”

Community energy projects to benefit from £1.8 million

Supporting communities to generate their own power

Communities on the island of Mull, the V&A Dundee and King’s Church in Aberdeen are amongst 23 local projects being awarded a share of £1.8 million to deliver renewable energy projects. 

Two Edinburgh projects – one from Porty Energy and the other from Edinburgh Leisure – are among the successful applicants.

The funding will enable community groups to generate their own power through renewable energy projects such as wind turbines and solar, while giving successful applicants the ability to earn money from their projects by selling excess energy generated.

Supported through a combination of Scottish Government and Great British Energy funding, the Community and Renewable Energy Scheme’s (CARES) Community Energy Generation Growth Fund will provide grants for equipment, installation and feasibility work for projects including: 

  • Emmaus Glasgow – to install renewable energy in a homeless centre   
  • the decarbonisation of Robert Gordon University’s sports hall in Aberdeen 
  • the installation of Solar PV energy generation at Saints Community Football club in St Johnstone           

This year, the Community Energy Generation Growth Fund has made a total of 71 funding offers – totalling more than £7.3 million – to community energy projects across the country. 

Speaking ahead of the CARES conference, Climate Action and Energy Secretary Gillian Martin said: “Community-led energy projects are at the heart of Scotland’s journey to net zero.

“By empowering local groups to generate their own clean energy with local solutions, we are not only cutting emissions but also reducing costs and creating resilient communities. These projects show what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision for a sustainable future. 

“This funding is giving communities the tools and confidence to take control of their own energy needs, keep money circulating locally, and build a fairer, greener economy.  

“Scotland’s transition to net zero must be inclusive and fair, and community energy is a vital part of ensuring that everyone benefits from the opportunities of a clean energy future.” 

UK Government Minister for Energy Michael Shanks said: ““Great British Energy is empowering communities in Scotland to take a stake in their own energy. 

“This is our clean energy superpower mission in action – putting communities in the driving seat of energy generation and making sure working people and local businesses profit.”  

Local Energy Scotland Manager Chris Morris said: “It’s great to see more community groups and charities developing energy projects and we’d like to congratulate all our successful applicants.

“We know how much effort goes into developing these inspiring proposals and we’re looking forward to working with them to deliver lasting impact – locally and across the country.

“This is a crucial time for community energy projects in Scotland. Through CARES, we’re helping local groups turn ambition into action, creating projects that not only reduce carbon emissions but also deliver long-term social and economic benefits for communities.”

Community Energy Generation Growth Fund · Local Energy Scotland

Community energy projects allow local groups to participate directly in Scotland’s transition to net zero, delivering financial and social benefits while helping communities take control of their energy supply. 

Up to £1.8 million of funding will be awarded through the latest round of the Community Energy Generation Growth Fund:

Applicant Name Project Title Total amount (£) 
The Antonine Sports Centre, Clydebank Solar PV and Battery on Antonine Sports Centre £102,400 
Islamic Education Trust, Cumbernauld IETC Solar and Battery £102,176 
King’s Church, Aberdeen King’s Church Aberdeen Solar PV Project £102,334 
Prestwick Tennis and Fitness Prestwick Tennis Centre Solar Panel Project £124,800 
Loch Arthur Camphill Community Micro-grid at Lochend £159,576 
McLaren Community Leisure, Callander McLaren CLC Green Energy Pooling Sustainable Power £241,275 
Islay Energy Trust Castlehill Solar Array Phase 2 £152,000 
Rosewell Development Trust Greener Communities Rosewell £46,065 
Porty Community Energy, Edinburgh Porty Community Solar £51,119 
Emmaus Glasgow Solar Panel Renewable Energy for Homeless Centre £113,750 
Design Dundee Ltd V&A Museum- Net Zero Installation £193,864 
Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen RGU Sport Decarbonisation of electricity £23,600 
Loch Arthur Camphill Community Micro hydroelectric plant £20,000 
Winchburgh Community Development Trust Winchburgh Solar- Commonwatt £12,000 
Birse Community Trust, Banchory Hydro Power feasibility study £20,000 
Glasgow East End Community Carers Ltd Project Green Space £72,790 
Blairgowrie Community Energy Blairgowrie Community Energy £5,470 
Saints Community Football SCIO (St Cuthberts), St Johnstone PV Energy Generation Scheme £96,167 
Edinburgh Leisure Solar PV & feasibility Study £74,208 
East Lothian Climate Action Newtork Hub Ltd Commonwatt 2 £20,000 
Mull and Iona Community Trust (MICT) Scaling up community energy in Mull £19,500 
Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre Development Trust Upscaled Orkney Site Feasibility Options Appraisal £47,000 
Coimhearsnachd Bharraidh agus Bhatarsaidh (Barra & Vatersay Community) Ltd Barra & Vatersay Energy Local Club £20,000 

Creative Communities: Eleven local projects to receive arts funding

Communities across Scotland are to receive new funding to ensure everyone can benefit from the creative arts.

Eleven grassroots projects – including one involving pupils from Craigmillar’s Castlebrae High School – have been selected to receive a share of £320,000 from the Scottish Government’s Creative Communities Scotland fund, which supports organisations delivering activities such as dance, filmmaking, creative writing, music-making and storytelling.

The fund aims to support and empower communities to develop cultural activities that benefit individual and collective wellbeing, with a focus on reaching those who face barriers to taking part in creative activities

The programme will be managed by Inspiring Scotland, which will also provide project support to successful organisations while they plan, deliver and assess the impact of those activities.

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “Creativity can transform lives and create confidence within communities – so I’m very pleased that so many projects, from Galashiels to Orkney, Aberdeen and Govanhill, have been successful in their applications.

“These grants will enable community-led organisations to develop and deliver projects that harness the power of creativity in supporting people and the communities they serve.

“The Creative Communities Scotland fund forms part of a £34 million increase in support to the culture sector this year to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to take part in and benefit from the creative arts, no matter their background or location.”

Erica Judge, Director of Funds at Inspiring Scotland, said: “The high level of interest in Creative Communities Scotland shows the incredible potential of creative and cultural activities to positively impact people’s lives.

“By supporting 11 organisations working across 9 local authorities, this funding will help communities overcome barriers to cultural participation – creating opportunities to enjoy the arts, reduce loneliness, strengthen communities, develop new creative skills, and experience joy and pride.”

Dave Close, Executive Director of the Hot Chocolate Trust said: “Some young people are bursting with talent but can’t access the resources to make music and learn. Some have been told that they’re ‘not musical’. Some have got things they need to say but they can’t find the words yet.

“With support from Creative Communities, the Beautiful Noise project at Hot Chocolate Trust is about releasing all these new possibilities and making something special together.”

Creative Communities Scotland successful applicants 2025-26

A Place in Childhood – £20,034
Craigmillar, Edinburgh City

Working with 20 S1-S3 pupils from Castlebrae High School in Craigmillar, this participatory project will give young people a professional-grade experience of all aspects of film making: script development, filming, production, post-production, editing and finally a screening of their work.      

Camglen Buddies Leisure & Social Club – £11,933
Cambuslang/Rutherglen, South Lanarkshire

Working with a videographer and a theatre professional, adults with additional support needs will have the opportunity to produce their own film, addressing key aspects from storyboarding, creating sets/props, filming and finally, celebrating their production.      

Eildon West Youth Hub – £23,572       
Galashiels, Scottish Borders        

‘Chromonauts: Demolition Art’ is a year-long, youth-led visual arts programme for young people who face multiple barriers to creative participation. The project will work with young people to reclaim ‘overlooked corners’ of Galashiels to create new art-works/civic spaces.

Empower Women for Change – £29,372       
Glasgow City

Participants will co-design and co-facilitate a programme of creative arts activities called Freedom in Expression: Joy in Creativity. This will provide safe, culturally relevant spaces where women from ethnic minority backgrounds, particularly refugees and asylum seekers, can express themselves through creative writing, painting, clay, glassmaking, collage, yoga, mindfulness, and storytelling.  

ESOL Scotland – £34,293
Glasgow City

This year-long programme of workshops will integrate English language learning with film making and photography, contributing to a community exhibition and screening that ‘celebrates the voices and journeys of our learners’.   

Forgan Arts Centre – £33,439   
Newport-on-Tay, Fife        

Building on a previous pilot, the organisation will run two strands of creative workshops for adult and young carers. Working with professional artists, the workshops will focus on building creative participation, wellbeing, and connection between carers.

Friends of Sanday Kirk – £31,720       
Sanday Island, Orkney      

Focused around Sanday Kirk and a Craft Hub, the project will create three separate pieces of art using different techniques: community mosaic project, mural project on Craft Hub’s gable wall, and the design and construction of a herring-shaped public bench to celebrate the island’s fishing heritage and its former herring yard, benefiting the whole community.

Gorebridge Community Development Trust – £34,423         
Gorebridge, Midlothian      

The Create365 arts project aims to improve wellbeing for the community and reduce isolation through four strands of work: 1) weekly rhythm sessions focused on art, music and writing;  2) monthly themed sessions;  3) seasonal sessions; and, 4) a ‘big year’ showcase presenting the output from the three other strands.

Hot Chocolate Trust – £34,413  
Dundee City 

This project will provide a year-long set of music producing activities aimed at 12-21 year olds. These sessions will offer young people the opportunity to begin their engagement with music all the way through to exploring professional music pathways.    

Romano Lav – £32,448    
Govanhill, Glasgow City

Co-produced with community members and co-facilitated by Roma staff, this community arts programme will support participants of all ages and genders to take part in a range of art forms including visual/digital arts, storytelling, ceramics, film and photography. It will culminate in a final exhibition as part of the Govanhill International Festival.

Touch of Love Outreach – £34,291     
Aberdeen City        

The ‘New Young Scots: Fix & Design Lab’ will work with young people to collect, repair and redesign everyday items. Its aim is for the young people involved to gain practical and social skills, reduce isolation and celebrate identity and culture through arts-based upcycling.