New service expected to free up 20,000 hospital appointments a year
A new eye care service is expected to reduce hospital admissions with approved Independent Prescribing (IP) optometrists receiving funding to treat more conditions in the community.
The new Anterior Eye Service, part of the Scottish Government’s record £139 million investment in eye care this year, will support approved IP optometrists to treat nine complex eye conditions which normally require a hospital visit.
The service will free up an estimated 20,000 hospital appointments a year, with patients being treated closer to home, offering greater appointment flexibility and continuity of care.
Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “This new service will mean people can get treatment for more eye conditions in the community, without the need to travel for a hospital appointment. It will get people the treatment they need faster, improving outcomes while also freeing up vital hospital capacity for more serious cases.
“This is an excellent example of the Scottish Government’s approach to shifting the balance of care towards the community, and is part of our record £139 million investment in community eyecare this year.
“I am very grateful to our community optometry profession, including Optometry Scotland, for taking part in this programme, which we estimate will save around 20,000 hospital admissions a year.
“Scotland remains the only part of UK to provide free universal NHS-funded eye examinations. This National Eye Health Week I would remind people of the importance of having free regular examinations with a community optometrist, even if they don’t think there is a problem with their vision.
“An eye examination helps with early detection of a range of sight and non-sight threatening conditions and community optometrists should always be people’s first port of call for all eye-related issues.”
Improved monitors to reduce the risk of further strokes
New investment in mobile heart-rate monitors could help prevent nearly 700 secondary strokes over the next five years, potentially preventing more than 300 deaths in Scotland.
Scottish Government funding of £1.9 million will support the deployment of Ambulatory Electrocardiogram (ECG) patch monitors for around 8,000 recent stroke patients each year. These small and easy-to-use chest patches will replace the larger and more cumbersome models currently in use.
As well as being more practical, they provide more accurate readings to allow doctors to make faster and more effective decisions about follow-on treatment.
A research paper found that over the next five years, use of the patches in NHS Scotland could prevent 689 secondary strokes and 319 deaths, while also freeing up the equivalent of 15.7 full-time cardiac physiologists for other vital services. Cost-savings for the NHS could amount to £14.6 million in the same period.
The compact, wireless, and water-resistant devices are worn on the skin for up to 14 days to detect rhythm abnormalities in the heart, particularly atrial fibrillation – a leading cause of stroke. The ECG patch monitors are expected to be four times more effective at detecting atrial fibrillation than current methods, reducing diagnosis and treatment times from up to 24 months to just three weeks.
Patients will also benefit from reduced travel, as patches can be applied during diagnosis or conveniently posted to their homes. Standardised access across Scotland will help eliminate regional disparities in diagnosis and treatment.
Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “The Scottish Government is clear that innovation will play a key role in reforming Scotland’s health service, and ensuring it remains able to meet the health challenges of a changing world.
“Projects such as this one are vital to improving patient outcomes, saving lives and enabling the NHS to treat people quicker and more effectively.
“This investment in innovative technology will make a real difference to the lives of thousands of stroke patients across Scotland. By accelerating diagnosis and treatment, we can help prevent recurrent strokes and improve health outcomes.
“The use of these new patch monitors is a fantastic example of how we are adopting cutting-edge solutions to renew Scotland’s NHS and ensure it can continue to deliver high-quality, efficient care.”
Katie Cuthbertson, National Director for the Centre for Sustainable Delivery, said: “Through the Accelerated National Innovation Adoption (ANIA) pathway, we are rapidly scaling technologies that have the power to transform lives.
“The rollout of ECG Patch Monitors is a prime example of how innovation can drive better outcomes across the NHS.
“By detecting atrial fibrillation earlier and more accurately, we are not only preventing recurrent strokes but also freeing up vital clinical capacity to support other cardiac services. This is innovation with impact, delivered at pace and scale.”
Professor Jann Gardner, Chief Executive of NHSGGC, said: “At NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, we are proud to be at the forefront of using technology to improve patient care.
“The ECG patch programme is a powerful example of how innovation can enhance diagnosis, reduce waiting times, and ultimately lead to better outcomes for patients.
“We’re pleased that this work is now being adopted nationally, and we remain committed to leading the way in delivering smarter, more effective healthcare.”
NHSGGC Consultant Cardiologist and ANIA Clinical Lead for the CfSD Dr Faheem Ahmad, who is also Cardiology Innovation Lead for the West of Scotland Innovation Hub, has worked directly with patients using the ECG patch. “The introduction of the ECG patch has been a game-changer for both patients and clinicians.
“We’re now able to diagnose atrial fibrillation more quickly and accurately, which means we can start treatment sooner and reduce the risk of serious complications like stroke.
“The patches can be worn just like a plaster, and in comparison to the older, traditional Holter devices, they are more comfortable and easier for patients to use.”
Support to help businesses harness artificial intelligence
A new programme helping Scottish companies seize the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) has been launched.
Supported by nearly £1 million of Scottish Government funding, it will offer small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) a range of support – including tailored consultancy services and grants – to introduce or expand the use of AI in order to develop new products and services, grow market share and attract new investment.
The programme will be delivered by enterprise agencies – Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and South of Scotland Enterprise – together with The Data Lab, Scotland’s innovation centre for data and artificial intelligence and the Scottish AI Alliance.
It is the first initiative to be delivered as part of AI Scotland, a transformation programme designed to support the adoption of AI. Businesses can find out more about support available on the Find Business Support website.
To launch the programme, Business Minister Richard Lochhead visited the Edinburgh Trams depot at Gogarburn in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Trams has been working with Edinburgh-based technology consultants Integrated Human Factors to develop a wearable fatigue monitoring device.
The Minister said: “Artificial intelligence is a hugely powerful, rapidly-evolving tool that can support and drive our economy. It can enable businesses to work smarter, to innovate and empower and support its workforces. The project being developed by Integrated Human Factors and Edinburgh Trams is a great example of this.
“This national programme will help ensure SMEs across the country have the right support and guidance in place to explore and develop how the adoption of AI could support expansion, competitiveness and open new markets. I’d urge all businesses to find out more about the support and guidance now available to them.
“The programme also marks an important first step in establishing AI Scotland, a true partnership bringing together expertise from across the public and private sectors to help ensure our economy, and indeed our society, is well placed to harness AI as a tool for economic growth and a force for good across society.”
Managing Director of Productivity & Business Growth at Scottish Enterprise Rhona Allison said: “The potential for AI to drive efficiency and productivity gains and increase companies’ competitiveness is immense. Yet research shows that three quarters of Scottish SMEs aren’t using any AI technologies and don’t have plans to adopt AI in the short term.
“We understand that businesses might be finding it difficult knowing where to start on AI adoption. That’s why the delivery partners have drawn on their experience to develop this ambitious Scotland-wide programme.
“It highlights the transformative potential of AI, considers the challenges of adoption, and makes practical support available to companies looking to embed AI in their operations.”
Today is the start of Scotland’s first National Innovation Week!
We are celebrating Scotland’s proud legacy of innovation. Throughout the week we will showcase new technologies and industries of the future.
First Minister leads summit with front-line practitioners
First Minister John Swinney has described his priority of eradicating child poverty in Scotland as “a truly national mission” and our “moral imperative” ahead of an event in Glasgow.
Addressing over 500 delegates from across the public and third sectors, the First Minister also announced that more families across Scotland are set to benefit from investment in innovative projects that join up local services, making it easier for people to access the support they need.
Through the Fairer Futures Partnerships (FFP), the Scottish Government is collaborating with local councils to test and improve services to better help families living in poverty. These partnerships bring together a range of services, across childcare, education, health and social care, housing, employment and beyond, to provide whole family support.
Building on the success in three pathfinder areas, and eight existing FFPs, the Scottish Government is now expanding these partnerships into five new areas – Dumfries & Galloway, Edinburgh, South Ayrshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian.
Speaking ahead of the event, the First Minister said: “When I became First Minister, I said that I will pursue priorities that will make Scotland the best our country can be, and the most important priority that I have pursued in Government has been that of eradicating child poverty.
“The cornerstone of our approach is investment in more dignified and generous social security support, through game-changing measures like the Scottish Child Payment, and ending the UK Government’s two-child limit.
“However, there are still far too many children growing up hungry, or cold, and unable to reach their full potential. In a country as wealthy as Scotland, that is unacceptable.
“It is my firm believe that nothing that is wrong with Scotland can’t be fixed by what is right in Scotland, and whole family support – which is about redesigning the system, both for the people who deliver vital services and for the people who rely on them – is key to that.
“And it is already happening, right now, in areas across Scotland, where local authorities and their partners are already testing new and innovative ways of working together – reshaping and redesigning services in close partnership with local communities. But we need to see this in all areas of Scotland.
“Through the Fairer Futures Partnerships, backed by £4 million investment this year, we are working hand-in-hand with local authorities, communities, and the third sector to deliver real, lasting change. And we are now rolling this out into even more areas of Scotland, allowing us to test and scale up what works, ensuring every child in Scotland can thrive.
“I want to shine a light on the good work that is happening, encourage knowledge-sharing, hear directly from people about what is working well and how the Government can support them to make whole family support a reality in all areas of the country.
“It is our truly national mission to ensure that no child in Scotland grows up in poverty. It is everybody’s business, and our moral imperative – because there is no greater long-term investment we can make in our future and our success as a nation.”
The five newly-announced Fairer Futures Partnerships (FFPs) build on the work of: the Social Innovation Partnership since 2016; the three original partnership projects in Dundee, Glasgow and Clackmannanshire; the five FFPs in Aberdeen City, East Ayrshire, Inverclyde, North Ayrshire and Perth & Kinross announced in the 2024-25 Programme for Government; and the further three in Fife, North Lanarkshire and Shetland announced in the 2025-26 Programme for Government.
Alongside this, Scottish Government is making up to £1.12 million “Adopt and Adapt” funding available to local authorities not currently engaged in Fairer Futures Partnerships. This funding is provided to support councils’ efforts to access and engage with the learning and evaluation programme, and to embed relevant learning in their local work on child poverty.
Communities across Scotland will benefit from £100,000 to tackle disruptive urban gull populations.
Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie will chair a summit in Inverness today bringing together local councillors, housing associations, business representatives, waste management organisations and community groups, scientific experts and NatureScot.
The summit was called to address growing concerns about gull behaviour in urban areas, where populations are increasing, even as coastal numbers decline.
He will also confirm that NatureScot will be investing £100,000 in councils to support efforts to limit the damage caused by gulls, ahead of next year’s breeding season. Deterrents can include measures such as the use of lasers, noise, roof spikes and netting to prevent nesting.
Mr Fairlie said: “The summit allows us to share practical solutions, learn from real-world examples and identify gaps in current policies to develop a coordinated approach.
“We know that effective gull management often requires a range of solutions, particularly around litter management which provides food sources.
“Where public safety is at risk, NatureScot can issue control licences. Our focus now is on how we can prevent these issues from arising next year, with extra support provided and I look forward to seeing the projects that this additional funding will help.
“By working directly with affected communities and expert advisors we can ensure solutions are tailored to local circumstances with effective deterrents that make urban areas less attractive to gulls.”
Professor Colin Galbraith, NatureScot Chair, said: “The evidence is clear that our gull populations are in decline. In some areas, gulls have adapted to the pressures they face – from climate change to food shortages and avian flu – by moving into our towns and cities in search of easier food and safe nest sites.
“We understand that some urban areas are experiencing issues with gulls and that this can have an impact on people’s lives, especially during the nesting season.
“While the debate on urban gulls has long centred on control through licensing, and that will undoubtably remain part of the picture, it is important at the same time to look at the underlying reasons for any problems, including the availability of food and nest sites for the gulls in urban settings.
“This funding will support local authorities to develop proactive and collaborative plans to manage gulls in a way that balances their conservation with any control activities.”
First Minister calls for more sanctions and an end to arms sales
Formal recognition of the state of Palestine must be accompanied by sanctions on Israeli security cabinet members, a ban on the trade in goods from illegal settlements, and the suspension of the UK–Israel trade deal, First Minister John Swinney said yesterday as he attended a ceremony at the Palestinian Mission in London.
The event to mark the historic step towards keeping the two-state solution alive follows the UK Government’s announcement of formal recognition of Palestine.
The First Minister pressed the UK Government for stronger action to end the conflict and protect civilian lives, and urged the UK to join South Africa’s International Court of Justice case and implementing International Criminal Court arrest warrants.
The decision to recognise Palestinian statehood brings the UK into line with the vast majority of countries at the United Nations, over 75% of whom now recognise the State of Palestine. The First Minister said it marks the first step towards establishing a viable two state-solution where both states can live in peace, prosperity and securely.
The ceremony follows the arrival of Gazan children and their families into Scotland for NHS treatment and comes as Scotland prepares to welcome the first students from Gaza to study at Scottish universities.
First Minister John Swinney said: “This is a historic moment for the people of Palestine which should have come long ago.
“I have been clear that the UK’s recognition of the State of Palestine should have been unconditional, but this decision goes some way towards acknowledging the UK’s solemn and historic responsibility towards all peoples of the region.
“While this announcement is welcome news, this is just the first step towards establishing the two-state solution. I urge the UK Government to take further action to accelerate peace including continuing to call for an immediate ceasefire and the resumption of free flowing aid.
“The international community must use all its energy to persuade and pressurise Israel to end the violence and return to a peace process. A two-state solution is the only option that can provide peace, prosperity and security for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.
“Hamas must play no role in the future of the Palestinian state. I have consistently and unequivocally condemned the brutal terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in October 2023 and I join the international community in demanding the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
“Scotland stands with the people of Palestine, and everyone in the region who yearns for peace, and I will continue to do all that I can to support those suffering in Gaza and the West Bank.”
Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin has pledged support for the next generation of green leaders in Africa as Climate Week NYC gets underway.
A total of £165,000 of Scottish Government funding has been awarded to the Green Generation Initiative (GGI) Youth Accelerator Programme – run by Kenyan youth climate activist Elizabeth Wathuti.
It will be used to help identify, upskill and mentor 25 emerging African climate leaders seeking to drive change and action in their local communities through a year-long fellowship programme.
The move reflects government commitments to champion the rights of children and young people as a signatory of the UNICEF Declaration on Children, Youth and Climate Action.
The government also reiterated its commitment to amplify the voices and strengthen the participation of young people from the Global South at climate conferences.
Ms Martin met with Ms Wathuti as part of her engagements in New York for Climate Week NYC.
She said: “Young people’s activism has challenged governments around the world to go further and faster on climate action and was instrumental in Scotland becoming one of the first countries to declare a climate emergency.
“Now, more than ever, we have a responsibility to ensure that young people feel valued, empowered and heard, and that they have access to the right funding and resources to act as agents of change in climate advocacy and action.
“This funding supports wider Scottish Government action on climate justice – which recognises that those who have contributed the least to global emissions are the ones most vulnerable to its impacts.
“By empowering youth-led organisations, we will help mobilise the next generation of leaders to shape climate policy, drive innovation and promote inclusive action that meets the needs of the communities they represent.”
Elizabeth Wathuti founder of Green Generation Initiative said: “The Green Generation Initiative (GGI) is glad to partner with the Scottish Government to scale our Africa’s Next Green Leaders Eccelerator (ANGLE).
“This partnership marks a powerful step toward building a green accelerator ecosystem in Africa that transforms promising youth-led climate leaders, ideas, solutions, and initiatives into investable, scalable, and locally rooted social enterprises and champions for people, planet, and prosperity.
“Through a strong consortium of partners and as a key youth voice in Africa, the Green Generation Initiative (GGI), through ANGLE is committed to advancing just, resilient, and low-carbon development pathways, driving green transitions across African communities and markets.”
Ben Macpherson rejoins government and Graeme Dey takes up vacant post
Graeme Dey has been appointed Minister for Parliamentary Business and for Veterans by First Minister John Swinney.
Subject to parliamentary agreement and the approval of His Majesty the King, Ben Macpherson will succeed Mr Dey as Minister for Higher & Further Education, while Mr Dey retains his responsibilities for Scottish Government policy on veterans.
The First Minister said: “I am delighted to appoint Graeme Dey as Minister for Parliamentary Business and Ben Macpherson as Minister-designate for Higher & Further Education.
“Graeme Dey brings wide experience of handling parliamentary business to this role and is a minister widely respected across the Parliamentary chamber for his open and constructive approach to finding common ground.
“Ben Macpherson has wider experience across a range of policy areas and will bring a creative and dynamic leadership to higher and further education that is so fundamental to transforming the lives of individuals across the country, and to supporting this government’s ambitious economic agenda.”
Ben Macpherson is the MSP for the Edinburgh Northern & Leith constituency. He grew up in the Scottish capital and graduated at the University of York before studying law at University of Edinburgh and becoming a lawyer.
He served as Minister for Europe, Migration & International Development from June 2018 to February 2020, then Minister for Public Finance & Migration until being appointed Minister for Rural Affairs & the Natural Environment in December 2020.
In 2021 Ben Macpherson became Minister for Social Security & Local Government, a post he held until leaving government in March 2023.
Visit is ‘opportunity to highlight role of devolved nations in driving climate action’
Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin will undertake a series of engagements in New York as part of Climate Week NYC.
Climate Week NYC brings together global leaders, businesses and civil society to address climate change and promote sustainable solutions.
In recognition of Scotland’s leadership positions as Regions4 President and European co-chair of the Under2 Coalition, Ms Martin will attend a series of meetings with member representatives as part of ongoing work to strengthen the influence of devolved, state and regional governments within international climate discussions.
Attendance at Climate Week will also be a chance to share knowledge and experience on emissions reductions and the need for a just transition with others, as well as action on creating climate resilience and enabling real, lasting and fair change across Scotland.
Speaking ahead of her visit, Ms Martin said: “No community is safe from the impacts of climate change, but the burden isn’t shared equally – with the poorest and most vulnerable suffering the most.
“Climate Week NYC gives Scotland the chance to shape the global conversation on climate finance and climate justice.
“As President of Regions4 and European co-chair of the Under2 Coalition, Scotland is pushing for more ambitious climate action – and we’re making sure that the voices of the Global South, especially women and young people, are heard loud and clear.
“I look forward to the opportunity to further build the influence of devolved, states and regional governments within the international climate debate with a strong focus on capacity building.”
The Cabinet Secretary’s programme will see her addressing the Under2 Global Ministerial Session on Monday 22 September as European Co-Chair of the Under2 Coalition.
She will also represent Scotland as President of Regions4, convening a roundtable of network members on Tuesday 23 September to inform and develop the network’s preparations for COP30.
On Wednesday 24 September the Scottish Government will co-host the livestreamed launch of a case study on the Scottish Climate Intelligence Service, in collaboration with ICLEI and Climate View.
The Cabinet Secretary will deliver opening remarks and take questions during a panel discussion emphasising the importance of and Scotland’s pioneering work on multilevel governance.
